This volume examines how Russia, Ukraine and other territories of the former Soviet Union have coped with more unnecessary death than any other countries on Earth during the 20th century. Two World Wars and one Civil War, state created famines and purges are only the most significant chapters in an unrelenting epic of destruction. The way in which Russians coped with loss and bereavement is a central issue in this volume. A description of the ornate, public services of the old Orthodox rite and an examination of the various attempts to impose an acceptable and emotionally fulfilling atheist alternative under Bolshevism. Millions of Russians were forbidden to mourn their loved ones who died as enemies of the people. This text documents the memories of those left behind and looks at this theme in light of the evolvement of the modern Russian Empire.