We are going to visit Russia so I’m reading a few books that are relevant. One is Catherine the Great by Robert Massie.

Here are a few quotes:

• It is impossible to cure long-established injustice in society simply by invoking philosophy no matter how beautifully expressed and persuasive on the page.
• More than intelligence and goodwill is needed to break down the traditions, prejudices and ignorance of both the owners and the serfs.
• In Russia in 1762 wealth was measured in serfs not land.
• The serfs were freed in Russia in 1861, four years before the 17th amendment freed the slaves in the USA.

It should be a great trip.