Russian statehood in the context of historical traditions

The policy of the Russian leadership in recent years, the strengthening of the state and its rather tough domination in the political field have intensified disputes about the “power vertical”. Some saw in its strengthening the means necessary to ensure unity, strength and efficiency of the state, others - a forced and temporary measure caused by the terrorist threat, others - a manifestation of the policy of curtailing democracy in Russia, undermining immature democratic institutions. Without pretending to the ultimate truth, one thing can be stated firmly: it is impossible to sort out this issue without turning to national history.