Anatol Lieven

Anatol Lieven is a British author, journalist, and policy analyst known for his expertise in international relations and security studies. He has written extensively on the politics and history of Russia and South Asia.

This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.

  1. 1. America Right Or Wrong

    An Anatomy of American Nationalism

    "America Right or Wrong" offers a critical examination of American nationalism and its impact on both domestic and foreign policy. The book delves into the historical roots of American national identity, exploring how deeply ingrained beliefs and myths have shaped the nation's political landscape. The author argues that these nationalistic sentiments have led to a polarized society and have influenced the United States' approach to international relations, often resulting in unilateral and militaristic actions. The book provides a nuanced analysis of the tensions between America's self-perception as a global force for good and the often contradictory realities of its actions on the world stage.

    The 17010th Greatest Book of All Time
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  2. 2. The Baltic Revolution

    Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania and the Path to Independence

    This insightful work delves into the complex political, social, and historical landscape of the Baltic states—Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania—during their tumultuous journey from Soviet republics to independent nations in the late 20th century. It explores the unique cultural identities and nationalistic fervor that fueled their drive for sovereignty, while also examining the geopolitical challenges and international dynamics that shaped their paths. Through a blend of historical analysis and on-the-ground reporting, the narrative captures the resilience and determination of these nations as they navigated the collapse of the Soviet Union and sought to establish their place in the modern world.

    The 17010th Greatest Book of All Time
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  3. 3. The Cambridge History Of Russia, Volume 2

    Imperial Russia, 1689-1917

    This comprehensive volume delves into the intricate tapestry of Russian history from the early 17th century to the late 19th century, exploring the transformative periods that shaped the nation. It examines the rise of the Romanov dynasty, the complexities of serfdom, and the socio-political upheavals that marked the era. The book provides a detailed analysis of Russia's expansionist policies, its interactions with neighboring states, and the internal reforms that sought to modernize the empire. Through a collection of essays by leading historians, it offers a nuanced understanding of the cultural, economic, and political forces that influenced Russia's trajectory during this pivotal period.

  4. 4. Pakistan

    A Hard Country

    A historically grounded, wide-ranging analysis of Pakistan’s politics and society that argues the country’s distinctive, ‘hard’ character stems from a mix of military dominance, feudal and tribal local power networks, Islamist currents, and regional/strategic pressures; these forces combine to make a resilient but brittle state that resists centralized reform, produces recurring instability, and operates through informal elite bargains and patronage rather than effective institutions, explaining both Pakistan’s durability and its persistent governance challenges.

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