Unravel the complexities of socialist states and the dramatic fall of communism across East Europe and the Soviet Union. This critical study offers a deep dive into Marxist theory in practice, exploring the diverse reasons behind communism’s collapse beyond inherent weaknesses. Nilanjana Majumdar meticulously analyzes the unique trajectories of key East European nations and Russia, revealing how differing societal transitions and a lack of theoretical models for governance critically impacted outcomes. Essential for Indian political science students, academics, and readers keen to understand global political history’s pivotal shifts.