Orlando Figes is a renowned British historian and writer, acclaimed for his extensive scholarly research and rich narrative style, particularly in the realm of Russian history. Born to a family of esteemed writers in 1959, Figes earned his PhD in history from the University of Cambridge and over time carved a distinguished career that has earned international recognition. His groundbreaking debut work, 'A People’s Tragedy: The Russian Revolution' vividly captured the complex turmoil of 1891-1924, garnering numerous honors, including the prestigious Wolfson History Prize.
Figes’ scholarship has continued to be groundbreaking, often exploring overlooked aspects of social and cultural history. His other notable works include 'Natasha's Dance: A Cultural History of Russia'; an innovative exploration of Russian identity, and 'The Whisperers: Private Life in Stalin's Russia'; a poignant portrayal of Russian family life under Stalin's oppressive regime. Through his work, he has consistently revealed previously untapped or unconsidered insights, prompting a wider shift in the focus of historical research.
Outside of his writing, Figes is a fundamental contributor to academia as a professor of History at Birkbeck College, University of London. A vocal advocate for the open exchange of information, Figes has always pushed for increased access to historical resources. Despite facing criticism and controversy at times, Figes remains a widely respected figure for his commendable dedication to his field, setting a high bar for both historical research and storytelling.