Great Game

Peter Hopkirk 1930-2014 - a British journalist and historian, author of six books about the British Empire, Russia, and Central Asia. In his already classic work, P. Hopkirk describes two centuries of confrontation between England and Russia in Central Asia, from the era of Peter I to Nicholas II, and analyzes their geopolitical goals in this vast region. It shows the intense secret and open struggle for territories, influence, and markets. The history of the Russians' penetration into Central Asia and the gradual conquest of the emirates and khanates - Tashkent, Samarkand, Bukhara, Khiva, Kokand, Geok-Teppe, Merv - is told in detail. Two Anglo-Afghan campaigns are described in detail. The amazing and dramatic adventures of the outstanding participants of the Great Game - officers, agents, and voluntary explorers from Russia and England, many of whom tragically perished, are vividly conveyed.