The book by the famous English historian, specialist in the history of Russia, D. Lieven is dedicated to the fate of the aristocratic clans of three leading European countries: Russia, Great Britain and Germany - during a turning point for the fate of European civilization, in the era of modernization and the formation of a modern industrial society. A radical change in the way of life and social structure confronted the aristocracy, which previously had undivided control of power and wealth, with the need to choose between adaptation to new realities and confrontation with them. Three different models of behavior of a class that had lost its position, implemented in three empires, largely predetermined their fate in the upheavals of the 20th century. The researcher addresses the following aspects of the problem; education and culture, sources of income (land holdings, forests, industry), aristocracy and war, aristocracy and politics, life and morals, etiquette, etc. A combination of accurate, statistically documented analysis with a broad outlook and a subtle understanding of the incomplete predetermination of historical development makes this book a fascinating and instructive read in its own way.