The work of S.M. Solovyov "Publicly available readings about Russian history" colorfully, in a popular form sets out the main events of the past of our country - From the 9th to the middle of the 19th century. The life and creative path of the largest pre-revolutionary historian of Russia S.M. Solovyov is described in detail by I.V. Volkov. The author reveals his attitude to the problems of reform and revolution, the state and society, the individual and the people, the laws and freedoms of historical choice, law and responsibility; shows S.M. Solovyov's desire to understand the present and influence it.