MennoLink Books and Music

This book deals with the first century of Russian Mennonite settlement, and the dynamics of change in Mennonite communities in Russia between 18789 and 1889. It chronicles the establishment in southern Russia of prosperous agrarian colonies, the foundation of religious congregations and the creation of new economic, social, and political institutions. Mennonites in Russia had to face the dual challenge of the emergence of a modern, industrial society and the increasing power of the Russian state. As Mennonites responded to these challenges, and some grew rich and successful, tensions and conflict in their communities increased. This resulted in the division of congregations and communities and the further emigration of many Mennonites to North America.

Revised 2007 Pandora Press

Urry looks at the Mennonite reaction to politics and political events from the Reformation onwards and focuses particularly on those people who settled in Russia and their descendants who came to Manitoba. Using a wide variety of sources, he takes an interdisciplinary approach to reveal that Mennonites, far from being the "Quiet in the Land," have deep roots in political life.

Copyright 2006 University of Manitoba Press