Russia's position as one of the two greatest powers in the world of today is generally known. Industrial development, on of the factors that has played the major role in raising her to this position, is too often slighted in studies in favor of political and social matters. Her industrial development is unparalleled; it is completely single and unique. Because of all these factors the writer has endeavored to trace the development of Russia's basic industries and railroads up to 1932.

This investigation, covering the past two decades, attempts to determine what benefits the Soviets have sought to gain in their relationships with Middle Eastern oil-producing nations. Chapter I surveys the U.S.S.R.'s oil industry and its tentative prospects for the 1980's. Chapter II discusses Soviet involvement in the Middle East since 1950, including nationalization and oil embargoes. In Chapter III, developments less favorable to the U.S.S.R. are, analyzed: the growing influence of conservative, anti -Soviet oil-producing states and the deradicalization of other Middle Eastern nations. Chapter IV concludes that the Soviets have met with varying success in their Middle Eastern involvements. The future of their oil industry remains uncertain.