The Tragic Dynasty Author:John Bergamini The Romanovs assumed control over Russia in 1613 and ruled uninterruptedly for three centuries. John Bergamini's classic work captures and conveys their ruthlessness and religiosity, their political acumen and wild extravagance. In so doing he offers profound character studies of some of history's most intriguing figures: Peter the Great, the ar... more »chitect of Russia's national identity; Catherine the Great, whose enlightened despotism has been overshadowed by her notorious reputation, the evil Rasputin and the doomed Tsar and Tsarina, Nicholas and Alexandra. Includes 16 pages of rare photographs.« less