About

People talk about remembering where they were when JFK died, or on 9/11.  But, while I remember the latter, and am too young to remember the former, what I really remember is where I was when Vladimir Putin became President of Russia.

My affair with Russia began in 6th grade.  It continued through Yeltsin’s 2nd Presidency, and into the Putin regime.  Over the past 9 years, my interests have included the war in Chechnya, and its beginnings, the regime’s foreign policy, and Putin’s consolidation of power.

Five years ago, I decided to memorise the names and titles of all the members of the Russian Government.  From a list of names and titles, my project expanded to 1/2 a 3×5 card each of birthdays, education, and prior government posts.  As the information I gathered grew, I began to see connections.  Those connections became the concept maps you will find here on this blog.  Included with the biographies are fun facts about each politician.  Some basic information (such as birthdays) has been difficult to find, but I hope that these deficiencies will eventually be rectified.  Information will be added as I find it, and updates on the clan wars will be provided as they occur.  In addition I will have a recurring post called “The Weakest Link”.  This page will highlight the politician who is most likely to next be removed from their post.

I am sharing my research in hopes that others will benefit from it, and collaborate with me as it continues to grow.  Discussion is more than welcome too.  Enjoy!