Czars and Shoguns: Early Russia and Feudal Japan is a single volume divided into two separate sections on (Unit 7) Early Russia, and (Unit 8) Feudal Japan.

• The first section introduces students to major geographical features of the vast lands of Russia and tells how Russia grew from a small principality to a large country ruled by powerful czars. Students learn how Moscow emerged as the center of the Eastern Orthodox Church. Students meet Ivan III (the Great), Ivan IV (the Terrible), Peter the Great, and Catherine the Great.
• The second section of this book begins by exploring how Japan’s geography as an island nation influenced its culture and history, especially its long isolationism. Students learn about the rise of powerful feudal leaders called shoguns, and the role of the soldier-nobles called samurai. Students also learn how Japan remained closed to most outsiders until European powers and Commodore Matthew Perry compelled the Japanese to open their doors for trade. Students are also introduced to two important religions in Japanese history, Buddhism and Shinto.