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The Great Game

The Struggle for Empire in Central Asia

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The Great Game

Written by: Peter Hopkirk
Narrated by: Alex Wyndham
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The Great Game between Victorian Britain and Tsarist Russia was fought across desolate terrain from the Caucasus to China, over the lonely passes of the Parmirs and Karakorams, in the blazing Kerman and Helmund deserts, and through the caravan towns of the old Silk Road - both powers scrambling to control access to the riches of India and the East. When play first began, the frontiers of Russia and British India lay 2000 miles apart; by the end, this distance had shrunk to 20 miles at some points. Now, in the vacuum left by the disintegration of the Soviet Union, there is once again talk of Russian soldiers "dipping their toes in the Indian Ocean."

The Washington Post has said that "every story Peter Hopkirk touches is totally engrossing." In this gripping narrative he recounts a breathtaking tale of espionage and treachery through the actual experiences of its colorful characters. Based on meticulous scholarship and on-the-spot research, this is the history at the core of today's geopolitics.

©2006 The Estate of Peter Hopkirk (P)2017 Tantor Asia Europe Great Britain Middle East Military Wars & Conflicts World War Russia Imperialism England Soviet Union
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What the critics say

" The Great Game, as the Anglo-Russian struggle in Central Asia was called, unfolds in Hopkirk's intricate narrative as an incredible tale of high adventure and political intrigue, conveyed here through the exploits of Cossacks, Muslim guerrillas, courageous travelers, spies, mapmakers and soldiers." ( Publishers Weekly)
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Extremely informative and well narrated .Well condensed for such a complicated history spanning a whole century.

Excellent historical narrative.

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A must read for any imperialist excursions into Afghanistan!! This book could have avoided at least 2 wars in the 20th century..

Excellent Eastern history!!

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The only thing preventing me from giving it to five star rating was the two very annoying broken part during critical points in the story. The broken up parts lasted for several minutes. Other than that though utterly fantastic story I will definitely listen to this one again

Fantastic book.

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Loved it. Well narrated, passionate and clear. Story is personal, unbiased and weaves between personal stories and bird's eye overview. Thoroughly enjoyed listening.

if only history is taught like this in school

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20 hour playtime means nothing. Hopkirk makes it so easy to engage such a complex story.

Amazing performance and overall a great listen.

Great Game, Great History. Great Hopkirk!

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