About the book: 1985 / The monograph, for the first time in historical science, gives a holistic picture of the political struggle that unfolded in the Russian state on the eve of the civil war and at its initial stage (1603–1605). The author clarifies the history of this war on the basis of new sources, determines the relationship between the elements of the peasant war and the Cossack movements. The book provides extensive biographical information about B. Godunov, G. Otrepyev and other historical figures of the early 17th century. The book is intended for researchers and history teachers, all those interested in Russian history.