This series delves into the rich history and complex cultures of Eastern and Central Europe. It explores the political, social, and cultural movements that have shaped this dynamic region. Readers can expect in-depth analyses of pivotal periods and events, uncovering the area's unique heritage. It's an ideal choice for those seeking an informed and thought-provoking understanding of Europe's eastern expanse.
Focusing on personal narratives and oral-history interviews, this work explores the experiences of Soviets, Jews, and Roma in Smolensk during the 26-month Nazi occupation. It reveals the struggles, resilience, and unique challenges faced by these communities, offering a poignant glimpse into a tumultuous period in history through firsthand accounts and diverse perspectives.
The book explores the intricate relationship between globalization and the transition of post-communist economies, highlighting their significance in today's economic landscape. Kolodko analyzes the challenges and opportunities faced by post-socialist countries, offering insights into potential pathways for their development in a globalized world.
"Nazi Germany's invasion of the Soviet Union in June 1941 and events on the Eastern Front that same year were pivotal to the history of World War II. It was during this year that the radicalization of Nazi policy--through both an all-encompassing approach to warfare and the application of genocidal practices--became most obvious. Germany's military aggression and overtly ideological conduct, culminating in genocide against Soviet Jewry and the decimation of the Soviet population through planned starvation and brutal antipartisan policies, distinguished Operation Barbarossa-the code name for the German invasion of the Soviet Union-from all previous military campaigns in modern European history. This collection of essays, written by young scholars of seven different nationalities, provides readers with the most current interpretations of Germany's military, economic, racial, and diplomatic policies in 1941. With its breadth and its thematic focus on total war, genocide, and radicalization, this volume fills a considerable gap in English-language literature on Germany's war of annihilation against the Soviet Union and the radicalization of World War II during this critical year." -- Back cover