A history of Russian-American relations from 1776 to 1917, when these two states, mostly antagonists since, were warm friends. A compelling account of Russian-American relations from the American Revolution of 1776 to the Bolshevik Revolution in Russia in 1917. Long before the Cold War, there was a seemingly unlikely connection between the two countries — one a champion of liberty and progress; the other an absolute monarchy and defender of tradition. Indeed, following Russia’s refusal to help Great Britain put down the rebellious colonists, there developed a relationship of warm friendship, robust trade, and mutual support between Russia and the newly formed United States of America. Over the course of the next century and a half, the relationship between Russia and America flourished and matured. The St. Petersburg Connection brings to life the events and figures that played a crucial role in that history, drawing a picture of a time when two of the great nations of the last century, often enemies since, were friends.