In spite of relative political stabilization and impressive economic growth during the last years, ultra-nationalism, rabid anti-Americanism and a Russian equivalent of the 'Dolchstosslegende' (legend of a stab in the back) have become major intellectual and political trends in the Russian Federation, and are reminiscent of the Weimar Republic. Published in 'Russia Profile,' May 24, 2007, & 'American Chronicle,' April 8, 2008.