The word "Cossack" conjures up different images to different people. To some, these ruthless riders from the steppes of Asia are the romantic embodiment of dash and daring; to others, they are horsemen from hell - alternately rebels against the Romanovs and vicious instruments of Tsarist repression. As John Ure demonstrates in this lavishly illustrated volume, both images are equally true, and he brings them to life, mining the most dramatic stories from the rich vein of Cossack legend and lore.