International relations Books

Book SynopsisAfrica 2.0 provides an important history of how two technologies – mobile calling and internet – were made available to millions of sub-Saharan Africans, and the impact they have had on their lives. The book deals with the political challenges of liberalisation and privatisation that needed to be in place in order for these technologies to be built. It analyses how the mobile phone fundamentally changed communications in sub-Saharan Africa and the ways Africans have made these technologies part of their lives, opening up a very different future. The book offers a critical examination of the impact these technologies have had on development practices, and the key role development actors played in accelerating regulatory reform, fibre roll-out and mobile money. Southwood shows how corruption in the industry is a prism through which patronage relationships in government can be understood, and argues that the arrival of a start-up ecosystem in the region has the potential to change this. A vital overview of the changes of the last three decades, Africa 2.0 examines the transformative effects of mobile and internet technologies, and the very different future they have opened out for sub-Saharan Africa.Table of ContentsIntroductionPart I: Technology diffusion: the spread of mobile calling and internetPrologue (1986–2004)1 Mobile voice calling booms (1993–2004)2 Bandwidth as the digital economy’s fuel: getting sub-Saharan Africa connected (1991–2015)3 Cheaper mobile internet and low-cost smartphones come together with apps sub-Saharan Africans want to use (2005–18)Part II: Technology influences: uses, behaviours and abuses4 Mobile money: from transferring cash by SMS to a digital payments ecosystem (2000–20)5 Sub-Saharan Africans start to live the digital life (2000–20)6 Sprinkling on the magic dust: digital’s impact on development (1982–2020)7 The ugly underbelly of the communications revolutions: corruption, cronyism, regulation and government (1999–2020)Part III: Taking the long view: start-up innovation and complex behaviour change8 Sub-Saharan African start-ups: getting beyond the hype to address deep market challenges (1995–2020)9 Doing complexity: making sense of what has happened over thirty-five yearsAppendix A: GlossaryAppendix B: List of those interviewedSelect bibliographyIndex

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Book SynopsisSince the mid-1990s, the European Union has defined the Asia Pacific as one of its key strategic targets on its ambitious road towards a global power. Over the past decades, big changes have taken place on both sides and the wider world. It’s high time to evaluate the EU’s performance in its Asian policy. In fact, the EU is at crossroads with its Asia Pacific policy. On several aspects, the EU is compelled to redefine its interests and roles, and rethink its strategies and policies towards the dynamic and ever important Asia Pacific region. This volume addresses this theme, by elaborating the general context, major issues and countries in the EU’s Asia Pacific policy. It covers issue areas of traditional security, economy and trade, public diplomacy, and human security and focuses on the EU’s relations with China, Japan, the ASEAN countries, and Australasia.Trade Review'At a time when both the EU and Asian regional groups are facing significant pressures from the global power shift, this remarkable collection of essays offers both cutting edge analysis and suggests pathways for their mutual interaction and advancement. A valuable read for scholars and policy-makers alike.' Amitav Acharya, Distinguished Professor of International Relations, American University, Washington, D.C 'This welcome volume adds significantly to the literature on relations between the European Union and Asia-Pacific. It is well organised, brings together a strong set of expert contributors and benefits from a strong set of common themes and questions. It raises and explores a range of highly significant ideas about the EU’s capacity to become, and be recognised as, a strategic actor in East and Southeast Asia, and subjects them to analysis and evaluation from both a European and an Asia-Pacific perspective.' Michael Smith, Professor in European Politics, University of Warwick 'It is high time for the EU to rethink its strategic priorities in the Asia-Pacific region. This volume does full justice to this aim, in terms of both coverage and depth. Overall, this is first-rate account of its subject and a necessary read for anyone seeking a better understanding of both the EU and the Asia Pacific at the beginning of the 21st century.' Pascal Vennesson, Professor of Political Science, S. Rajaratnam School of International Relations, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore -- .Table of ContentsContents List of tables List of figures Notes on contributorsPrefaceList of abbreviationsIntroduction: The European Union’s Asia-Pacific strategies and policies at the crossroads Weiqing Song and Jianwei WangPart I: General strategic context1 The European Union in the Asia-Pacific: strategic reflections Michael Reiterer2 A European pivot towards Asia? Inter-regionalism in a new era Julie GilsonPart II: Major issues and themes3 European Union security policy and initiatives in the Asia-Pacific Fulvio Attinà4 Assessing the European Union’s economic relations with the Asia-Pacific Miguel Otero-Iglesias5 Public diplomacy of the European Union in East Asia Suetyi Lai and Li Zhang6 The European Union’s approach to human security: lessons from the Asia-Pacific Evangelos FanoulisPart III: Selected countries and groups7 The European Union’s partnership with China: navigating between trouble and promise Gustaaf Geeraerts8 Shifting constraints, evolving opportunities and the search for the “strategic” in the European Union–Japan bilateral partnership Elena Atanassova-Cornelis9 The European Union’s security strategy in the ASEAN regionReuben Wong10 The European Union in Australia and New Zealand Nicole SciclunaIndex

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Book SynopsisHow are borders built in the modern world? What does Brexit mean for Ireland's border? And what would happen if Elon Musk declared himself president of the Moon?In Border Wars, Professor Klaus Dodds takes us on a journey into the geopolitical conflict of tomorrow in an eye-opening tour of the world's best-known, most dangerous and most unexpected border conflicts from the Gaza Strip to the space race.Along the way, we'll discover just what border truly mean in the modern world: how are they built; what do they mean for citizens and governments; how do they help understand our political past and, most importantly, our diplomatic future?

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Book SynopsisBringing together an international team of contributors, this volume draws on international political theory and intellectual history to rethink the problem of a pluralistic world order. Inspired by the work of international political theorist Nicholas Rengger, the book focuses on three main areas of Rengger’s contribution to the political theory of international relations: his Augustine-inspired idea of an ‘Anti-Pelagian Imagination’; his Oakeshottian argument for a pluralist ‘conversation of mankind’; and his ruminations on war as the uncivil condition in world politics. Through a critical engagement with his work, the book illuminates the promises and limitations of civility as a sceptical, non-utopian, anti-perfectionist approach to theorizing world order that transcends both realist pessimism and liberal utopianism.Table of Contents1. Rengger’s anti-Pelagianism: international political theory as civil conversation – Vassilios Paipais Part 1: Anti-Pelagianism and the Civil Condition in World Politics 2. Revisiting Rengger’s Anti-Pelagianism – Noel O’Sullivan and Sophia Dingli 3. Poetics and Politics: Rengger, Weber, and the Virtuosi of Religion – John-Harmen Valk 4. ‘Keep your mind in hell, and despair not’: Gillian Rose’s anti-Pelagianism – Kate Schick Part 2: Challenging the Anti-Pelagian Imagination 5. ‘A Dangerous Place to Be’? Nicholas J. Rengger, the English School, and International Disorder – Ian Hall 6. Rengger’s War on Teleocracy – Chris Brown 7. Conservatism, Civility, and the Challenges of International Political Theory – Michael Williams Part 3: The Uncivil Condition in Word Politics 8. Rengger the Reluctant Rule Follower – Anthony Lang Jr. 9. Rengger and the ‘Business of War’ – Caroline Kennedy-Pipe 10. Just War as Tradition in a Civil International Order – Valerie Morkevičius Afterword 11. Rengger, History, and the Future of International Relations – Richard Whatmore

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Book SynopsisHow will protecting our digital infrastructure shape our future? Cybersecurity is one of the key practical and political challenges of our time. It is at the heart of how modern societies survive and thrive, yet public understanding is still rudimentary: media portrayals of hoodie-wearing hackers accessing the Pentagon don’t convey its complexity or significance to contemporary life. This book addresses this gap, showing that the political dimension is as important as the technological one. It accessibly explains the complexities of global information systems, the challenges of providing security to users, societies, states and the international system, and the multitude of competing players and ambitions in this arena. Making the case for understanding it not only as a technical project, but as a crucial political one that links competing visions of what cybersecurity is for, it tackles the ultimate question: how can we do it better?Table of Contents1. Introduction: A 'Wicked Problem' 2. How Did We Get Here? 3. Cybersecurity, Cyber Risk 4. States and Markets 5. International Cybersecurity 6. Cybersecurity and Human Security 7. Conclusion: A Global Conversation

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Book SynopsisHow did Russia manage to emerge resurgent on the world stage and play a weak hand so effectively? Is it because Putin is a brilliant strategist? Or has Russia stepped into a vacuum created by the West's distraction with its own domestic problems and US ambivalence about whether it still wants to act as a superpower? Putin's World examines the country's turbulent past, how it has influenced Putin, the Russians' understanding of their position on the global stage and their future ambitions -- and their conviction that the West has tried to deny them a seat at the table of great powers since the USSR collapsed.This book looks at Russia's key relationships -- its downward spiral with the United States, Europe, and NATO; its ties to China, Japan, the Middle East; and with its neighbors, particularly the fraught relationship with Ukraine. Putin's World will help Americans understand how and why the post-Cold War era has given way to a new, more dangerous world, one in which Russia poses a challenge to the United States in every corner of the globe -- and one in which Russia has become a toxic and divisive subject in US politics.

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Book SynopsisNATIONAL BESTSELLER The leading national security expert who predicted Putin’s intention to invade Ukraine argues that China’s Xi Jinping is preparing to conquer Taiwan in the coming years—with dire stakes for America and the world if he is not deterred We are fully in the midst of Cold War II, this time with China. Taiwan is a new West Berlin, a perilous strategic flashpoint where localized events could trigger a devastating war between nuclear powers.   But this outcome is far from inevitable. Laying out the grand strategy for the United States and allies to avoid this fate, the highly respected security analyst Dmitri Alperovitch reveals key actions that could enable America to win the race for the twenty-first century. This sharp, timely book is the essential blueprint for preventing a catastrophe.

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Book SynopsisEnvironmental Conflicts and Peacebuilding in Africa covers pressing issues of environmental politics, such as environmental activism and litigation, climate change, conservation, the challenges of coastal communities, flood prevention, and waste management. Oil subsidy removal, rule of law, and the roles of media and religion are also closely considered.This collection of essays also covers domestic security issues, such as policing, ethno-religious conflicts, local conflicts between farmers and herdsmen, and strategies of conflict resolution affecting the environment. Other issues under discussion include peacebuilding, urban machine politics, the place of children and youth in nation building, and the intersection of politics and psychology in self-determination struggles. Of vital importance to any student of modern Africa, these chapters offer a solid and detailed compendium of readings to contextualize key international relations subjects in the real world. The compendium is also a fitting tribute to the life’s work of one of the brightest scholarly minds Africa has produced.

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Book SynopsisRussia and Britain were never natural bedfellows. But the marriage, in 1894, of Queen Victoria's favourite granddaughter, Alicky, to the Tsarevich Nicholas marked the beginning of an uneasy Anglo-Russian entente that would last until the Russian Revolution of 1917. The Imperial Tea Party draws back the curtain on the three extraordinary meetings that took place between the British and Russian royal families during those years. These pivotal encounters, although well-intentioned and generally hailed as successes, were beset by misunderstandings and misfortunes. In this wonderfully droll account, Frances Welch presents a vivid snapshot of two dynasties at a time of social unrest. The two families could not know, as they waved each other fond goodbyes from their yachts at Cowes in 1909, that they would never meet again.Trade Review"With her quick wit and light touch, Welch conducts a relentless inquiry into conscience, family loyalty and the nature of the past... an unsettling portrait of moustaches, murder, and lèse-majesté.’ Frances Wilson, The Spectator "In this funny, touching and ultimately tragic book, Welch brilliantly exposes how the British family courted and then abandoned their royal cousins in the run-up to World War I." Kathryn Hughes, Mail on Sunday "A fascinating book... Welch is an excellent writer." The Daily Telegraph "Delightfully witty and entertaining." The Times Literary Supplement "Excellent history... Intrigue aplenty." The Times "Deeply affecting." Daily Mail

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Book Synopsis'Captivating, a John le Carre-esque yarn' Telegraph'A thoroughly good read' Michael Portillo, author of Portillo's Hidden History of Britain and presenter of Great British Railway Journeys'A compelling story of courage, determination and skill' Terry Waite CBE, author of Taken on TrustThe true story of a retired British army officer's private Somali-hostage rescue missionDuring the peak of the Somali piracy crisis, three ships - from Malaysia, Thailand and Taiwan - were hijacked and then abandoned to their fate by their employers, who lacked the money to pay ransoms. All would still be there, were it not for Colonel John Steed, a retired British military attaché, who launched his own private mission to free them. At 65, Colonel Steed was hardly an ideal saviour. With no experience in hostage negotiations and no money behind him, he had to raise the ransom cash from scratch, running the operation from his spare room and ferrying million-dollar ransom payments around in the boot of his car. Drawing on first-hand interviews, former chief foreign correspondent of The Sunday Telegraph, Colin Freeman, who has himself spent time held hostage by Somali pirates, takes readers on an inside track into the world of hostage negotiation and one man's heroic rescue mission.Trade ReviewFreeman draws from extensive first-hand interviews with survivors to paint a vivid picture of this shadowy world with the clarity and panache of a seasoned reporter ... the story is captivating, a John le Carre-esque yarn. * Telegraph *A compelling story of courage, determination and skill. If any book shows that hostage negotiation is not for the faint hearted this is it. -- Terry Waite CBE, author of Taken on TrustA raw, gripping and profoundly moving book. Between the Devil and the Deep Blue Sea tells the extraordinary story of Somalia's forgotten hostages, the pirates who tortured them for years, and the quietly heroic Britons who refused to give up on them. -- Andrew Harding, author of These Are Not Gentle People and The Mayor of MogadishuA thoroughly good read. -- Michael Portillo, author of Portillo's Hidden History of Britain and presenter of Great British Railway JourneyJohn Steed has led an exemplary retirement as a uniquely skilled volunteer, helping to free the seafarer hostages of Somali pirates who some governments wanted to forget. Colin Freeman's book about him is both wonderful and long overdue. -- Michael Scott Moore, author of The Desert and the Sea'A MUST READ book ... 5 stars, highly recommended!' -- Jordan Wylie, adventurer and author of Citadel: The true story of one man's war against the pirates of SomaliaTruly thrilling and fast moving ... a must read for those who seek to understand the complex history and environment in which piracy exploded in Somalia from 2008 to 2012. * Hiiraan Online *

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Book Synopsis 2016. The world is on the brink of crisis. Who could have predicted how events would play out? In this satirical thriller, Stanley Johnson, former MEP and father to Prime Minister Boris Johnson, just might have. In Britain, the British Prime Minister Jeremy Hartley is fighting a referendum he thought couldn’t be lost. In the USA, brash showman, Ronald Craig is fighting a Presidential Election nobody thought he could win. In the USSR, Igor Popov, the Russian President, is using both events as part of his plan to destabilise the West.Trade Review'I wish we had been able to take this book into the jungle. Stanley's Kompromat is a superbly funny satire on recent events!' * Georgia Toffolo ('Toff'), ITV's Queen of the Jungle 2017 *'Brilliant.' * The Sunday Times *‘Perfect beach material.’ * Independent *‘It’s brilliant and, who knows, maybe it’s true.’ * Ken Livingstone *'A rollicking work of fiction that sets conniving caricatures of real-life figures amid a diorama of recent world events...Mr. Johnson, a former member of the European Parliament and the father of British Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson, clearly knows all the drills. The author of 25 earlier works of fiction and nonfiction, he has a lifetime’s expertise that adds comic credibility to a caper combining the antic action of Mad magazine’s old "Spy vs. Spy" cartoons with the gonzo humor of Carl Hiaasen.' * Wall Street Journal *‘There are some novelists who, by instincts or study, understand perfectly the independent components of a thriller. Stanley Johnson is one of them.’ * Daily Telegraph *‘This thriller has the makings of a gleeful romp through geopolitical skullduggery, but Johnson (The Commissioner) has laid out something that looks more like an alternative history for our grim and disrupted times.' * Publishers Weekly *‘An enjoyable satire…while still being all too scarily believable.’ * Crime Novel Reader *‘This is a brilliant alternative account of recent and current events.’ * The Chronicle *‘In its complex plotting and intrigue, Kompromat not only suggests that Russia was influencing the US election campaign, but behind the scenes bolstering the fortunes of the Leave campaign. Of course, Kompromat is an entertainment but Johnson is quite chuffed that some of his plot twists have proved prescient.’ * Sydney Morning Herald *

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Book SynopsisThe gripping story of a turning point in global affairs, as politicians belatedly awaken to serious systemic threats. This is the inside story of a revolution in China policy, from Washington to Brussels, Berlin to New Delhi. The Rupture explains how many of the Western politicians, thinkers and business leaders closest to Beijing have become its sharpest opponents; how the COVID-19 pandemic dramatically accelerated this collective rethink; and why 5G represents the first test case as to whether China may win the battle for the future. Noted China expert Andrew Small offers a kaleidoscopic picture of a rivalry ranging far beyond ‘great power’ politics. He traces US efforts to recast relations with old allies, as Washington realises that it cannot confront China alone, charting Europe’s growing role in the technological and economic contest, and Beijing’s attempts to build a coalition of its own, from Moscow to Taliban-run Kabul. As competition grows between systems, the Western model itself is transforming—for China’s rise changes the balance of ideas as much as the balance of power.Trade Review‘Anyone who wants to understand the rethinking of China policy that has taken place in recent years, and Beijing’s challenge to Germany and to Europe, must read this smart and compelling account by one of the best-informed insiders.’ -- International Politik, ‘Books of the Year’

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Book SynopsisLocated between the tip of Japan and Taiwan, Okinawa is a tiny island of huge geopolitical importance. Its US military bases means it has the attention of both China and North Korea.

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Book SynopsisThis edited collection provides deep insights and varied perspectives of innovative and courageous efforts to reconcile the conflicts that have characterized the history of Indigenous people, settlers, and their descendants in Canada. From the opening chapter, the volume contextualizes why Canada is on a reconciliation journey, and how that journey is far from over. It is a multi-disciplinary treatise on decolonization, peacebuilding, and conflict transformation that is a must-read for those scholars, students, and practitioners of peacebuilding seeking a deeper understanding of reconciliation, decolonization, and community-building. Indigenous and non-Indigenous scholars and influencers from across Canada describe positive conflict transformation through various lenses, including education, economics, business, land sharing, and justice reform. The authors describe their personal and professional journeys, offering insights and research into how individuals and institutions are responding to reconciliation. Each chapter provides readers with windows into the tangible ways that Canadians are building a peaceful shared future, together.Trade Review“Written by a blend of practitioners, community leaders, and respected academics who work in advancing reconciliation on a daily basis, Our Shared Future: Windows into Canada’s Reconciliation Journey is a valuable contribution to how we can move forward in our social relations.” -- Christopher Adams, Rector of St. Paul’s College and Chair of the Arthur Mauro Institute for Peace and JusticeTable of ContentsReconciliation: A Canadian JourneyLaura E. Reimer and Bob ChrismasChapter 1. Our Long Road: The Story of Indigenous Relations in CanadaLaura E. ReimerChapter 2. Leadership, Reconciliation, and FriendshipPaul E. VogtChapter 3. Walking in the Footsteps of the Peacemaker: A KENIENKĒ;HAKA Personal Odyssey of ReconciliationBrian RiceChapter 4. Beyond Apology: Decolonizing the JesuitsPeter Bisson, SJChapter 5. Reconciliation and Indigenous Adult Learners: Reshaping Education through a Trauma-Informed LensChrista Yeates with Laura ReimerChapter 6. Reconciliation through Education: The University of WinnipegAnnette TrimbeeChapter 7. Ago’widiwinan (Principles of Treaties) Loretta RossChapter 8. Reconciliation and Satellite Urban Reserves in CanadaJoseph GarceaChapter 9. Business and Reconciliation: Call to Action 92Ronald G. EvansChapter 10. Reconciliation and the Evolution of Canadian Policing Dale McFee with Bob ChrismasOur Shared Future: Conclusions from the WindowsBob Chrismas and Laura E. Reimer

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Book SynopsisFrance—the romanticised, revolutionary land of Liberty, Equality and Fraternity for all—is failing. Reform is urgently needed. This book is a powerful indictment of the status quo, and a highly original perspective on the challenges to which the nation must rise. Nabila Ramdani is not from the establishment elite: she is a marginalised insider, born and raised in a neglected Paris suburb. With unflinching clarity, she probes the fault lines of her struggling country, exposing the Fifth Republic as an archaic system which emerged from Algeria’s cataclysmic War of Independence. Today, a monarchical President Macron shows little interest in democracy, while a far-right party founded by Nazi collaborators threatens to replace him. Segregation, institutionalised rioting, economic injustice, the debasement of women, a monolithic education system, deep-seated racial and religious discrimination, paramilitary policing, terrorism and extremism, and a duplicitous foreign policy all fuel the growing crisis. Yet Ramdani offers real hope: the broken French Republic can, and must, be fixed.Trade Review'[A] highly readable … blazing indictment of modern France … Ramdani’s criticism is heartfelt and justified.' -- The Sunday Times'Ramdani tackles head-on some taboo subjects, such as race. . . It is the feeling that there is a parallel society in constant collision with the rest of the country that drives the talk of "civil war".' -- The Times‘The author’s insights into France’s failings are penetrating… [She offers] sharp observations about how France’s enduring commitment to republican values provides a licence for many to pursue a divisive and neocolonial agenda behind the rhetoric of constitutional equality.’ -- Labour Hub‘Fixing France is … certain to ruffle Gallic feathers, and likely many of those enamored with everything French.’ -- The Diplomatic Courier'Nabila Ramdani was born to write this book. She dissects this wonderful, vexing country that was the home of the Enlightenment--but which still needs a lot of enlightening.' -- Jon Sopel, former BBC Paris and Washington correspondent, and co-host of The News Agents'This deep dive into France's frenetic politics provides us with an essential perspective.' -- Mark Stone, foreign correspondent, Sky News'A timely and fresh perspective on a country that seems to have it all. Yet its citizens are angry and dissatisfied. Why? Ramdani provides some smart answers in this thought-provoking book.' -- Clive Myrie, BBC presenter and former Paris correspondent'Evocative and beautifully written, this is a thorough and thought-provoking analysis of modern France, and where it's going wrong.' -- Sam Greenhill, chief reporter, Daily Mail'Forensically pierces through the mythologies of the Fifth Republic, combining socio-economic analysis, history, and Ramdani's own encounters with some of the most powerful and polarising political figures in the country. A must-read for Francophiles and agitators alike.' -- Mehreen Khan, Economics Editor, The Times'Ramdani portrays a France that she knows intimately, highlighting her country's contradictions with wit. Her book is extremely well-documented, and uncompromising yet hopeful. It provides France with an opportunity for some serious soul-searching.' -- Rokhaya Diallo, columnist, The Guardian'Ramdani's brave book bursts with questions about the country she loves. Few have made a stronger argument for tearing down the Fifth Republic and building a new France.' -- Keir Simmons, Chief International Correspondent, NBC News'For anyone with a love of France, Ramdani's book will interest and provoke with its analysis of France's problems and the challenges it faces to remedy them. The criticisms are sharp but delivered with insight and affection for her country.' -- Dominic Grieve, former Attorney General for England & Wales'A timely and nuanced reflection upon the problems facing France--racism, polarisation, colonial amnesia, an elitist education system--and the solutions needed to fix them. Required reading for anyone wishing to grapple with the challenges facing the twenty-first century world.' -- Martin Evans, Professor of Modern European History, University of Sussex, and author of 'Algeria: France's Undeclared War''France is the European country we think we know best, but "Fixing France" shines a light on the dark corners of one of Europe's most complex, influential and fascinating nations. Thorough research, unique insight, and accessible, engaging writing.' -- Barbara Serra, British-Italian journalist and documentary filmmaker'France is ailing, struggling to reconcile age-old Republican ideals with the realities of twenty-first century society, and the resulting polarisation is toxic. Ramdani draws on personal experience, family history, and insightful analysis and commentary to suggest a diagnosis and provide meaningful remedies.' -- Dominic Thomas, Letessier Professor of French, University of California, Los Angeles'France is a society with many contradictions, especially in relation to colonialism, racism and identity. This absorbing and highly readable book skillfully captures and unravels the delusions under which many French still operate and, most importantly, offers avenues forward.' -- Jean Beaman, author of 'Citizen Outsider: Children of North African Immigrants in France''An invaluable constructive critique of France in the last 70 years. This is an engaging and enlightening read.' -- Amy Hubbell PhD, Senior Lecturer in French, University of Queensland

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Book SynopsisA gracefully written reflection on how small states can pack a punch that belies their size.

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Book Synopsis“From Stettin in the Baltic to Trieste in the Adriatic, an iron curtain has descended across the Continent. Behind that line lie all the capitals of the ancient states of Central and Eastern Europe. Warsaw, Berlin, Prague, Vienna, Budapest, Belgrade, Bucharest and Sofia” – Winston Churchill, 5 March 1946 Following the Allies’ victory in World War II, the European continent was soon divided into two broad zones of influence, with Eastern Europe coming under communist Soviet control, and the west under the oversight of the liberal democracies led by the United States. What developed over the next 40 years was a military and ideological stand-off that defined Europe and much of the world until 1989. In countries such as Germany, the Cold War divided families between the two zones of control. The two opponents competed for global dominance, building up ever greater arsenals of nuclear weapons, funding and fighting costly proxy wars in Southeast Asia, Africa and Central America, deploying espionage and trade embargoes, and even seeking technological advantage in space exploration, which became known as the “Space Race”. The Cold War provides a pictorial examination of this crucial era in 20th century history, offering the reader an instant understanding of the key events and figures in this 40-year period through 150 dramatic photographs.Table of ContentsContents: Introduction For the decades between 1946 and 1991, the Soviet Union and its allies in the Eastern Europe – the so-called ‘Soviet bloc’, united under the banner of the Warsaw Pact – and the United States of America and its allies in Western Europe, united under the banner of the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) – were involved in a massive geo- political and military stand-off, known as the Cold War. 1940s • Best of Enemies. Yalta Conference, Feb. 1945. Decided post-war reorganization of Europe. • Thinking the Unthinkable. Britain’s plans for ‘Operation Unthinkable’, June 1945. Didn’t happen, but intriguing straw in wind/indication of the way western strategists were thinking. NB Britain’s assumption of continued leadership role (despite recognition that plan couldn’t succeed without US help). All this about to change ... • Big Boy. Bombing of Hiroshima, Nagasaki, Aug. 1945 doesn’t just end WWII secures superpower status for USA • A War of Rhetoric. Stalin/Churchill speeches – incompatibility capitalism and communism (Feb. 1946)/’Iron Curtain’ (Mar. 1946) • Gifts to the Greeks. Civil war in newly-liberated Greece. Communists backed by USSR; monarchists by Britain. Civil War breaks out (May 1946). US support for Greek anti-communists (and, by implication, other comparable groups) firmed up in ‘Truman Doctrine’, March 1947. • Au Revoir, Indochine. First Indochina War, 1946–54. Against French, of course – though they had discreet support from USA, while Viet Minh openly assisted by Soviets. Final defeat for French at Dien Bien Phu, March–May 1954. (Maybe just mention Algeria here? Not sure it merits own entry in this context ...) Ho Chi Minh’s communists in control in North; succession of US-backed dictatorships in Republic of Vietnam. • ‘People’ Power. Communist takeover in Czechoslovakia, Feb. 1948. Quick sketch of situation in other Iron Curtain countries. • Buying Allegiance? Marshall Plan inaugurated, Apr. 1948. (NB aid offered to Soviet Bloc as well but refused. Underlined East–West divide.) • Blockade! Berlin Blockade and Air Lift, Jun. 1948–May 1949. Dramatically highlighted Europe’s new divisions. • Colonial Concerns. Malayan Emergency, Jun. 1948–60. (Paradigmatic for succession of liberation struggles in former European colonies now vacated by Japan.) • The Yugoslav Exception. Tito’s split with Stalin, 1948–9. Leadership of Non- Aligned Movement, from 1955. • A Dismal Prophecy. Having already ruffled Soviet feathers with his satirical allegory Animal Farm (1945), Eng. writer George Orwell summed up the dismal achievements of the totalitarian in Nineteen Eighty-Four, published Jun. 1949. • Parity Restored. Soviet nuclear bomb tested, August 1949. • ‘Bamboo Curtain’. Establishment of PRC, Oct (and of west-orientated RoC, Taiwan, Dec.) 1949 1950s • ‘I have here in my hand ...’ Joe McCarthy speech, 9 Feb. 1950. Start of witchhunt. HUAC hearings; Hollywood Blacklist, etc. • The Red Rosenbergs. Julius and Ethel arrested as Soviet spies, July 1950. Convicted and executed 1953. (Despite strenuous campaign to save their posthumous reputations, and suggestions that the charges against them had been antisemitic in origin, discoveries in Soviet archives later confirmed their status as Russian agents. • A Friend in Francisco. A reluctant Pres. Truman prevailed on to mend fences with Franco’s dictatorship as bulwark against Communism. Marshall aid, hitherto withheld, made available to Spain from late 1950. • Cambridge Reds. Defection of Guy Burgess and Donald Maclean. Cambridge 5. Kim Philby to follow Jan. 1963. • ‘The Forgotten War’. Korea, Jun. 1950–Jul. 1953 • An Escalating Arms Race. British A-Bomb detonated, 3 October, 1952; US H-Bomb first detonated, 1 Nov, 1952 • ‘Dissolve the People ...’ Workers’ Uprising in E. Berlin, 1953. Violent suppression famously satirized by leftist playwright/poet Bertolt Brecht. • Playing Dominos. US interventions Iran, Guatemala, both March 1954. Eisenhower introduces idea of ‘domino theory’ in speech that April. • ‘His Intolerance, His Brutality and His Abuse of Power’. Stalin’s rule denounced by Khrushchev at 20th Congress Sov. Comm. Party, 25 Feb. 1956. • Repression Resumed. Soviet interventions Posnan, Poland, Jun., Hungary, Oct. 1956 • Stand-Off in Suez. Row over Nasser’s Egypt buying arms from the Soviet bloc prompts West to withdraw aid from Aswan Dam project. Nasser retaliates by nationalizing Suez Canal. Attempt by Britain, France and Israel to topple him. Suez Crisis, Oct. 1956 • The Frontier Above. Sputnik 1957; prompted Kennedy’s ‘New Frontier’ speech Jul. 1960. • Look Before You Leap. China inaugurates ‘Great Leap Forward’ Jan. 1958. Will end in catastrophic famine. • What the Doctor Ordered. Poet and novelist Boris Pasternak (author of Doctor Zhivago, 1957) wins Nobel Prize for Literature, 1958. Soviets furious. • ‘Socialism or Death!’ Cuban Revolution (broke out 1953) prevails, Jan. 1959. (Explicitly aligned with USSR from Dec. 1960.) • Law or Brigandage? Khrushchev’s shoe-banging address at UN, Sept. 1959. Angry at intrusions by US spy-planes. Main content of speech largely about USSR’s support for winding up of colonialism. • Road of Resistance. NVA begin opening up ‘Ho Chi Minh Trail’ to south, where Viet Cong are campaigning against Ngo Dinh Diem’s US-backed government. (Much of it ran through Laos, drawing that country into conflict later.) 1959. 1960s • The Man Who Fell to Earth. U2/Gary Powers, May 1960 • Red Flag Rift. Sino-Soviet Split. Jun. 1960. • Castro Comes to Harlem. Cuban leader arrives in NY to address UN; meets Malcolm X, Allen Ginsberg and other US figures as well as leading ‘Third World’ statesmen. Sept. 1960. • ‘No Longer Your Monkeys’. Life and death of Patrice Lumumba. Quote is from 1960. Republic of Congo (now DRC) independent from June 1960; Lumumba its PM but for just a few weeks before being overthrown by US-(and France- and Belgium-)backed Mobutu. Killed 17 Jan. 1961. • Counterrevolutionary Carve-Up. Bay of Pigs, Apr. 1961 • Dancing for Democracy. Rudolf Nureyev defects, Jun. 1961 • The Concrete Curtain. Berlin Wall built, Aug. 1961 • Superpower Poker. Cuban Missile Crisis 1963 • The False Flag of Freedom. Gulf of Tonkin Incident, Aug. 1964. • The Atomic Orient. China tests A-Bombs, Oct. 1964 • Confusion in the Caribbean. US Marines sent to Dominican Republic, Apr. 1965. Some years of instability after Trujillo’s death, 1961. Overthrow of military dictatorship spooked Johnson Administration after Cuba. Glance at situation Nicaragua, Haiti, etc. • Thunderstorm. US presence in Vietnam, established by JFK, 1961, beefed up with launch of Operation Rolling Thunder against NVA and Viet Cong positions in Vietnam and Laos (Feb. 1965) and dispatch of additional 60,000 US troops (more from allies) Apr. 1965 • Big News from Bangkok. Anti-communist ASEAN alliance launched, Aug. 1967. • ‘Shoot, Coward ...’ Che Guevara killed, La Higuera, Bolivia, 9 Oct. 1967 • ‘Never Forget History’. Quote’s from Indonesian leader Sukarno, now deposed at second attempt by Suharto (sworn in as Pres., Mar. 1968). Wave of anti- Communist repression ensues. • Spring Turns Sour. Prague Spring. Uprising crushed August, 1968. 1970s • The Storm Spreads. Tet Offensive of early 1968 had underlined ineffectiveness of what should have been irresistible US assault in Vietnam and Laos up to that point. Mounting US frustration reflected in extension of conflict to Cambodia, Apr. 1970. • Egypt Swings West. Nasser having died in 1970, Sadat’s ‘Corrective Revolution’ de-Nasserized the govt in Egypt. Soviet advisers expelled, May 1971. • Meeting Mao. Pres. Nixon’s visit to PRC, Feb. 1972. • Bobby Beats Boris. Fischer–Spassky, Reykjavik, Sept. 1972. • Saving Face. Loss of US momentum in Vietnam – and increasing ‘Vietnamization’ of the conflict, from 1970 (maybe even 1969 – despite ‘Storm Spreads’ entry above) led, slowly but inevitably, to ceasefire with North, Jan. 1973. • A Chilean Tragedy. Pinochet’s US-backed Coup in Chile, Sept. 1973. Death of Allende. • Aleksandr in Exile. Novelist Aleksandr Solzhenitsy, Nobel Prizewinner 1970, stripped of Soviet citizenship, 1974. • The Scientist and the State. Physicist and peace activist Andrei Sakharov, Nobel Peace Prize, 1975. Not allowed to go to Stockholm to collect it. • Red Ruin. Pol Pot’s Khmer Rouge come to power in Cambodia, ushering in era of ‘Killing Fields’. • Fall of Saigon. Republic of Vietnam left fighting increasingly futile rearguard action. State finally collapsed and capital taken, Apr. 1975. • Democracy and Death. East Timor’s declaration of independence (Nov. 1975) sparks long and bloody programme of repression by Suharto’s Indonesia. • African Agony. Soviet- (and Cuban-)backed MPLA take power in Angola, Feb. 1976. Lengthy civil war with UNITA (till 2002) ensues. Parallel conflict in Mozambique, where FRELIMO govt beset by RENAMO insurgency, 1977–92. • A Thorn in the Flesh. CIA’s persistent (and sometimes bizarre) attempts to assassinate Castro over the years revealed by Church Committee, 1975–6. • A Post-Mao Mellowing? Death of Mao, 1976. Economic reforms in China announced by Deng Xiaoping, Dec. 1978 • Of Socialists and Sonsofbitches. Sandinistas come to power in Nicaragua, Jul. 1979 • Afghan Outrage. Soviet-supported government in Afghanistan tottering. Russian intervention, Dec. 1979 1980s • Time Out. Moscow Olympics. Boycotted by 66 countries, following US example, in aftermath of Afghanistan invasion. Jul./Aug. 1980. (Will lead to retaliatory boycott of LA, 1984.) • Faith, Hope and Solidarity. Poles inspired by visit of Pope JPII (1979). Gdansk shipyard protests, Poland: birth of Solidarity, Aug. 1980. Lech Walesa becomes international hero. (But Gen. Jaruzelski will introduce martial law, Dec. 1981.) • ‘Star Wars’. Couple of weeks after his ‘Evil Empire’ speech, Pres. Reagan’s SDI announced, Mar. 1983 • Rematch in Moscow. Shades of Fischer–Spassky (1972) in Karpov v Kasparov Chess Match, 1984–5 • A New Broom. Mikhail Gorbachev becomes Soviet Premier (Mar. 1985). Policies of Perestroika and Glasnost. Moratorium on nuclear weapons testing. • Out of Afghanistan. After accession of Mohammad Najibullah’s National Reconciliation govt the previous year, Sov. withdrawal from Afghanistan begins, May 1988. • Drawing the Curtain. Gorbachev announces USSR will no longer intervene militarily in Eastern Europe, Dec. 1988. Consequences in e.g. Hungary, Poland, Czech Republic, Bulgaria, Romania in months that follow. (See also Berlin Wall bit below ...) • Beijing Bloodshed. Massacre of pro-democracy demonstrators in Tiananmen Square, Jun. 1989 • Breaking Down the Wall. Fall of Berlin Wall, Nov. 1990 1990s • Under New Management. Boris Yeltsin elected Pres. Russia, May 1990. (Though NB, Gorbachev’s USSR still exists, at least in theory, as overarching state.) • Breaking Free. Referendums in Baltic states and Georgia lead to their independence, early months of 1991; other Caucasian and Central Asian states follow in course of the year. • Red Reaction. Unsuccessful (but scary while it lasts) ‘August Coup’ in Russia, Aug. 1991. • A Post-Communist Christmas. Gorbachev resigns; Soviet Union essentially wound up; Yeltsin calls George H.W. Bush, who announces end of the Cold War. Time for a ‘New World Order’ ... • The End of History? Fukuyama’s study. Glance at other potential problems, from gangsterism in states of former Soviet Union to Islamic radicalism elsewhere.

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Book SynopsisThe Rights Track: Sound Evidence on Human Rights and Modern Slavery uses rich content from The Rights Track podcast [www.rightstrack.org] in an innovative book that enhances and enriches our understanding of the human rights challenges facing the world today. This book showcases the important role of evidence in tackling those challenges and explores the medium of podcasting as a tool for discussing how research evidence is used to protect and promote human rights. From counting torture victims to the joy of human rights, from modern slavery to gay rights, refugees to the radical right, the authors draw new insights and intelligence from conversations between podcast host Landman and an array of experts and advocates who are leaders in their field. Through close analysis of the voices and commentary of podcast guests from six series of the podcast, the authors illustrate the enduring importance of human rights and the need to keep talking about them.Trade Review “The Right Track podcast series brought research and scholarship on human rights and modern slavery to wide audiences. This book tells the story behind the series – a fascinating insight which powerfully demonstrates the value of technology in making knowledge accessible. But it also provides a collation and analysis of the rich material from the series and provokes thought, challenges mindsets and ultimately has the potential to transform lives.” – Dame Sara Thornton Independent Ant-Slavery Commissioner.“The Rights Track podcast is an outstanding project of applied research on urgent human rights issues. This book brings the power of voice by insightful experts and knowledgeable field practitioners to a broader audience. The text provides a useful context and will make a welcome contribution to classroom and public conversations.” – Alison Brysk, Mellichamp Professor of Global Governance, University of California Santa Barbara, USA. “What if you could get (almost) all the world’s human rights experts together in one place? What if you could put sharp and insightful questions to every one of them, and then distil their wisdom in action? LISTEN to this book, and you feel your brain EXPAND.” – Kevin Bales, Professor of Contemporary Slavery, Research Director, The Rights Lab, UK."From 1839 when Anti-Slavery International was founded to the present, we have argued over human rights. We may sometimes despair but this collection of viewpoints - encompassing, religion, the covid pandemic, racism, and violence against 'the other' - offers us insights from activists and thought-leaders grappling with these issues. This is a timely guide for those who want to think and do." - Baroness Young of Hornsey, Member of the House of Lords, UK Parliament. “This innovative book is sure to become standard reading for scholars, partitioners, advocates, students and anyone interested in gaining a deeper understanding of the status of human rights in an ever- changing world. Landman and Garrington draw on 6 years of podcast conversations with advocates, scholars and survivors during some of the most challenging moments for human rights—the Trump presidency, Brexit, and the COVID pandemic. The authors expertly weave together important themes from their years of discussions on a wide range of topics from the plight of minorities and migrants to modern slavery. The book offers critical insights on the most pressing human rights of our time and, along with the companion podcasts should be taught in human rights courses around the world. This is a ground-breaking book, accompanied by a rich and wide-ranging set of podcasts that challenge the prevailing pessimism about the status of human rights and human dignity in our world.” - Heather Smith-Cannoy, Associate Professor of political science, Arizona State University, USA.Table of ContentsPart I: Background and Context: 1. Human Rights in the Twenty-First Century; 2. Podcasting for Human Rights; Part II Human Rights Themes: 3. Mobilising for Human Rights; 4. Human Rights Evidence; 5. Freedom of Speech, Religion, Belief, and Thought; 6. Minorities, Migrants and Refugees; 7. Human Rights and COVID-19; Part III: Modern Slavery: 8. Slavery Past and Present; 9. Perpetrators and Survivors; 10. Business, Economics, and Modern Slavery; 11. Fighting Slavery on the Ground; Part IV: The Future of Human Rights: 12. Communicating Human Rights.

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Book SynopsisThree decades after the Soviet Union''s collapse, Russia has transformed from a fringe player to a resurgent great power in Africa. The October 2019 Russia-Africa Summit in Sochi highlighted the appeal of Russia''s normative agenda, the ubiquity of Russian military technology, and the breadth of Moscow''s presence on the continent. Beneath the pageantry, a darker side of Russia''s African resurgence looms large. From Libya to Madagascar, Russia has used sinister tactics to expand its influence, such as private military contractors, shadowy mining and energy deals with authoritarian regimes, and election interference campaigns. This book presents a chronological examination of Russia''s post-Cold War foreign policy towards Africa, and outlines the factors that have enabled and impeded the growth of its influence. It pays special attention to the non-material factors behind this rising power; the domestic drivers of Russian decision-making; Moscow''s relationships with fellow external p

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Book SynopsisThis edited volume examines the political and security issues influencing and shaping the developing maritime order in the Indo Pacific. If focuses specifically on the impact of China’s maritime expansion upon the policies and strategies of the regional states as well as the major players. The chapters examine the interaction of these players, paying particular attention to Japan, as the originator of the Indo Pacific idea and promoter of security cooperation and regionalism. It also covers the responses of the ASEAN claimants, Vietnam, Malaysia, the Philippines as well as Indonesia, alongside the key players, India, the US and also the EU.Table of ContentsCh 1: Introduction: Maritime issues and the Indo Pacific, by Leszek BuszynskiCh 2: A Brittle Status Quo in the South China Sea, Gregory B. PolingCh 3: Japan, the US, Vietnam and the South China Sea , Yoji KodaCh 4: China’s coast guard, grey zone operations and the South China Sea, Martin A. SebastianCh 5: The South China Sea in Multilateral Forums: Five Case Studies, Carlyle A. ThayerCh 6: The Philippine Pivot to China: Threat to Stability in the West Philippine Sea, Marites Danguilan VitugCh 7: Environmental issues in the South China Sea and Blue Solutions, Nguyen Chu HoiCh 8: Assessing Europe’s perspectives on the South China Sea, Nicola Casarini-Ch 9: Japan and the East and South China Seas, Tomotaka ShojiCh 10: The Contest in the East China Sea, Yann-huei SongCh 11: The Misperception on China’s East China Sea ADIZ: Technical Flaws and legal Facts, Cao QunCh 12: Japan and the Free and Open Indo-Pacific (FOIP), Takashi HosodaCh 13: Historical continuities, geopolitical interests and norms in Japan’s Free and Open Indo Pacific, Toshiya TakahashiCh 14: India and the Indo-Pacific, Udai Bhanu SinghCh 15: The U.S. Indo-Pacific Strategy: An American Perspective, Derek GrossmanCh 16: ASEAN and Indo-Pacific Outlook, To Anh Tuan and Do Thanh HaiCh 17: Indonesia and Indo-Pacific Cooperation, Senia FebricaCh 18: Conclusion: Physical connectedness and conceptual divide , Do Thanh Hai

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Book SynopsisThis book explains the historical roots of the conflict between Jews and Arabs, which has lost none of its explosiveness to the present day, in a comprehensive and easy-to-understand manner. The question of who owns the Holy Land is more relevant today than ever. The debates on this topic are often characterized by ignorance and strong emotions, while partiality and power interests still obscure the view on the political situation in the Middle East. Shaking up old myths and prejudices, this book presents an overall historical as well as political analysis of the Jewish, Christian, and Muslim structures, actors, and actions from the very beginning to this very day, as well as a topical analysis. It combines history with theology and political science. Thus, the book is a must-read for scholars and students of political science, history, and international relations, as well as policy-makers, interested in a better understanding of the historical background and current political situation in the Middle East. Table of ContentsHoly Land? Israel? Palestine?.- RELIGIOSITY AND POLITICS.- The Pious, the Zealous and a "Dead" God.- Fundamentalism - A Shield for the Culture?.- Is Zionism Blasphemy?.- Zionism in the Quran?.- THE HOLY LAND, RELIGIONS AND POLITICS.- What Is the Holy Land? - Biblical Borders?.- Why Is the Land Holy?.- To Whom Is the Land Holy?.- Where Is the Land Holy? Or: To Whom Does Jerusalem Belong?.- How Is the Land Holy? Or: Holiness and Statehood.- By What Means Is the Land Acquired?.- THE HISTORY OF CHANGING OWNERSHIP.-Whose Possession? Whose Property?.-Names and Power.- The Patriarch Fathers.- Jewish Settlement as “Conquest”.- Kingdom and Kingdoms Come and Go.- Exile, Return and Autonomy.- The Europeanization of the Holy Land.- Christians as Heirs and Owners.- Re-Orientalisation - Arabisation, Turkification.- Re-Europeanization.- The Return of Islam.- The Return to Zion.- The British in the Holy Land.- The Founding of Israel -- Palestine Becomes Jordan.- “Greater Israel” -- Jewish or Democratic? Of Federations and Confederation.- Injustice for Injustice – Conclusion – Solution?.

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Book SynopsisThis open access book examines Russia-China relations across a variety of civilian and military areas of cooperation. Leading experts in the field present empirical case studies covering a wide range of strategic cooperation areas between Russia and China, such as technological, military, economic and political cooperation. The contributing authors shed new light on Chinese and Russian strategic goals, external push and pull factors, and mutual perception shifts, and discuss the options for Western countries to influence this development. This book analyses the evolution of the relationship since the watershed moment of the Crimean crisis in 2014, and whether or not a full-blown military alliance, as hinted in late 2020 by President Putin, is indeed a realistic scenario for which NATO will have to prepare. It will appeal to students and scholars of international relations, political decision-makers, as well as anyone interested in Eurasian politics and the potential military-strategic impact of a Russian-Chinese alliance for NATO.Table of ContentsChapter 1. Introduction: Analyzing the Shifts in Sino-Russian Strategic Cooperation Since 2014.- Part I. Mutual Perceptions and Narratives.- Chapter 2. Putin’s Russia: Global Strategic Outlook and Policies − What Role for China?.- Chapter 3. Imperialist, Comrade in Arms, Foe, Partner, and Now Ally? China’s Changing Views of Russia.- Chapter 4. Domestic Politics: A Forgotten Factor in the Russian-Chinese Relationship.- Part II. The Military Dimension of Sino-Russian Cooperation: Case Studies.- Chapter 5. Russian-Chinese military-technological cooperation and the Ukrainian factor.- Chapter 6. Russia-China Naval Partnership and Its Significance.- Chapter 7. Chinese and Russian Military Modernization and the Fourth Industrial Revolution.- Chapter 8. China-Russia Cooperation in Nuclear Deterrence.- Part III.- Spatial and Multilateral Aspects of Sino-Russian Cooperation: Case Studies.- Chapter 9. Digital Authoritarianism and Technological Cooperation in Sino-Russian Relations: Common Goals and Diverging Standpoints.- Chapter 10. Sino-Russian Scientific Cooperation in the Arctic: From Deep Sea to Deep Space.- Chapter 11. Partnership Without Substance: Sino-Russian Relations in Central and Eastern Europe.- Chapter 12. Cooperation Between Russia and China in Multilateral Organizations – a Tactical or a Strategic Alliance?.- Part IV.- The Way Forward: How Could the West Cope with Russia and China?.- Chapter 13. What a Military Alliance Between Russia and China Would Mean for NATO.- Chapter 14. Options for Dealing with Russia and China - a US Perspective.- Chapter 15. The Way Forward: How should Europe Deal with Russia and China?.- Chapter 16. Conclusion: Connecting the Dots and Defining the Challenge.

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Book SynopsisEurope is in a permanent state of crisis: nationalisms, brexit and seemingly insurmountable differences on issues of migration, reforming the euro zone and improving its global competitiveness are threatening the cohesion of the Union. At the same time, external pressure from Russia and China, developments on the southern periphery, and not least in the United States, is growing. Trump's election not only disintegrates Germany's foreign policy coordinate system, but also turns the liberal international order upside down. Against this background, Stefan Fröhlich argues for a reassessment of Germany's role in Europe and the world in this political essay: Germany's foreign policy is better than its reputation. In recent years, the country has long since broken with numerous taboos and assumed leadership in Europe. This is one of the reasons why the accusations of those who continue to lament German complacency but at the same time evade global leadership and responsibility themselves sound downright cynical.This book is a translation of the original German 1st edition Das Ende der Selbstfesselung by Stefan Fröhlich, published by Springer Fachmedien Wiesbaden GmbH, part of Springer Nature in 2019. The translation was done with the help of artificial intelligence (machine translation by the service DeepL.com). A subsequent human revision was done primarily in terms of content, so that the book will read stylistically differently from a conventional translation. Springer Nature works continuously to further the development of tools for the production of books and on the related technologies to support the authors.Table of ContentsThe tiresome debate about Germany's role in the world - from overcoming division to the new German question - The future of the world economy and the euro zone - Between the fronts. Conflict and crisis management on the eastern and southern flanks of the EU - Transatlantic and other strategic partnerships - Germany in the concert of global system change agents - Germany's new foreign policy pragmatism

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Book Synopsis

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Book Synopsis

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Book SynopsisWhich European and non-European ideas and practices facilitated the shaping of European unity? Or rather, which pursuits led to deadlocks in the cooperation between states? The book seeks answers to these questions by surveying the historical attempts at realizing supranational patterns of governance in Europe since the Middle Ages. The main focus is on the nineteenth and twentieth century organizational models of European unification. The analysis draws on an abundance of historical and legal source material. While the author encourages critical thinking about European integration, the exploration is admittedly based on specific values. Éva Bóka claims that the struggle for the humanization of power with its democratic creative force has been the major driver in the development of the system of liberties and the idea of European unity. The analysis of the historical process up to the Lisbon Treaty (2007) with the recognition of common, shared, and supported competences meets the author’s set of values to a great extent. The last part of the book examines whether the European Union can serve as a political and economic organizational model for other parts of the world.Table of ContentsPreface Introduction: The Idea of European Unity, the Western System of Liberties, and the Dichotomy of Federalism versus Intergovernmentalism 1. The Most Important Achievements of the Idea of European Unity in the Field of State and International Organization before the Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen (1789) 1.1 Defense Unions and the Theoretical Differentiation between the Alliances of States 1.2 European Universalism 1.3 The Idea of Liberty and the Principles of a Civil State and Union of States 2. A New Democratic Constitutional Federal State in Opposition to Feudalism and Colonization: The Constitution of the United States of America (1787) and Its Influence in Europe 2.1 The Constitution of a Democratic Federal Republic under a President (1787) 2.2 The “Hamilton Method” 2.3 The Dichotomy of a Fictive versus Real Economy 2.4 The Main Phases of Democratization of the Idea of European Unity 3. The Dilemma of Democratization of the Idea of European Unity (1789–1815) 3.1 The French Revolution and the Attempt to Establish Democracy and Popular Sovereignty in a Unitary Nation State 3.2 Kant in Search of a Democratic International Policy (Foedus Pacificum) 3.3 The Conservative Breakthrough 4 The European Phenomenon of Nation State and National Empire, and the Chances of a European Federation (1815–1919) 4.1 Romantic Nationalism 4.2 The German and Italian Unification 4.3 The Swiss Confederation (1848) 4.4 Plans for the Reconstruction of the Habsburg Monarchy 4.5 The Federalist Opposition to the Liberal Democratic Unitary Nation-State 4.6 Colonialism of European Great Powers and the Forgotten Idea of European Unity 4.7 The Forgotten Europe: The Treaty of Versailles, and the League of Nations 5 The Crisis of Realization of the Western System of Liberties and the Idea of European Unity between the Two World Wars 5.1 In the Shadow of Dictatorships 5.2 The Idea of Pan-Europa 5.3 Plans for a European Economic Union 5.3.1 The Dichotomy of Liberal versus Statist Economic Theory 5.3.2 Planning European Economic Unity 5.4 The Great Depression and the New Deal of Roosevelt 5.5 The Great Depression and Hitler’s Europe 6. Fight for a Democratic Europe 6.1 Coudenhove-Kalergi and the Pan-European Movement 6.2 L’Ordre Nouveau and Personalist or Integral Federalism 6.3 The Resistance Movement—Launching the Policy of a European Democratic Federation Based on the Idea of Liberty 7. In Search of a New Europe: Three Alternatives 7.1 Atlantic Cooperation 7.2 Confronting the Legacy of Colonization—“Eurafrica” in a Decolonization Perspective 7.3 To Become a Great Power from Europe’s Own Democratic Forces: The Federalist Reform 8. Realizing the Idea of European Unity in the Framework of the Council of Europe 8.1 The Hague Congress (1948): Intergovernmentalist, Federalist, and Functionalist Bases of a European Union 8.2 Intergovernmentalist Majority and the Council of Europe 9. Shaping the Supranational European Union 9.1 Functionalist Sectoral Integration: The “Monnet-Method” 9.1.1 Criticism of the “Monnet-Method” by Contemporaries 9.2 Supranationalism toward Federalism (1952–1954) 9.3 The Rome Treaties and the European Economic Community (1957) 9.4 De Gaulle’s Intergovernmentalist “European Concert” 9.5 Spinelli: Relaunching Integration, Reviving Federalism 9.6 The Delors’s Reform: Federation of Nation States and of People 9.7 European Union (1992): A New Type of Federalist Functionalist and Intergovernmentalist Functionalist Union of States Based on Subsidiarity and Multilevelism 10 Outlook: Future Paths and Perspectives 11 The World and Europe (EU): Some Responses to the Challenge of European Modernity 11.1 Responses from India (Gandhi and Nehru) 11.2 Some African Answers (Nkrumah, Senghor, Nyerere) 11.3 Responses and Challenges from Confucian East Asia (Japan, China) 11.3.1 The Japanese Answer (Yukichi Fukuzawa) 11.3.2 The Chinese Responses and Challenge (K’ang Yu-wei, Sun Yat-sen, Mao Zedong, Deng Xiaoping) 11.4 The Vision of Peaceful International Organization 12 Concluding Thoughts Bibliography About the Author Index

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Book SynopsisThis edited book consists of various chapters — including articles from different leading scholars, on the Great Transition in India with respect to religion, economy and foreign policy. The main aim of the book is to comprehend ongoing transition in India from interdisciplinary perspectives.

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Book SynopsisTrade Review"“Vipin Narang’s new book, Seeking the Bomb, is an important contribution to our understanding of nuclear proliferation and, by extension, ways to prevent it . . . . the book, unfortunately, could not be more timely"---Henrietta Wilson, Times Literary Supplement"[Seeking The Bomb] brilliantly dissects and theorizes how states pursue nuclear weapons. . . .[An] innovative account."---Rabia Akhtar, International Affairs

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Book SynopsisBritain is a land shaped by oil. How does that impact its past, present and future? Trade Review'Tells you all you need to know about oil's part in the industrialisation and deindustrialisation of Britain - how lives were built, how they were destroyed and how we now need to urgently build a green, just and sustainable economy' -- Rebecca Long-Bailey MP‘Vivid and detailed’ -- Financial Times'A vivid, compelling and very human account of how big oil has infiltrated our lives, the people it's enriched and those it's abandoned' -- Caroline Lucas MP'Dripping with delicious detail' -- Aditya Chakrabortty, 'Guardian' journalist'Superbly illustrates how the UK's toxic relationship with oil has defined our politics, our lives and our culture. An engrossing read' -- Jon King, Gang of Four'Compelling. [...] Marriott and Macalister take on the roles of sleuth, archaeologist, and witness to tell a story of oil, money and politics which changed millions of people's lives' -- Madeleine Bunting, author of 'Love of Country: A Hebridean Journey' (Granta, 2017)'As a former oil geologist who worked offshore during the heyday of the North Sea oil boom, I was transported back to those times. This book beautifully captures the mood and spirit of the time, and with a forensic approach it unravels the various political and financial events that took place between the UK government and the oil companies' -- Tim Fairs, former Oil Geologist for Chevron'Truly remarkable. [...] a unique insight into Britain's role and experiences in an oil addicted world' -- Herbert Girardet, Executive Committee Member, Club of Rome'A marvellously rich account of how the oil industry has come to shape contemporary Britain' -- David Beetham, Emeritus Professor of Politics at Leeds'Told with passion and wit, this is a brilliantly original account of oil's lasting national imprint' -- Gavin Bridge, Professor of Geography, Durham University‘A poignant and wonderfully crafted journey that connects the oil industries and global capitalism with local stories. The authors are thoughtful storytellers guiding us through this journey’ -- Farzana Khan, writer and Executive Director of Healing Justice London'A harrowing read ... Marriott and Macalister interweave history and psychogeography. This is refreshing if not seamless: as the narrative style shifts from reportage to the rhythms of speech and prayer you would find in a David Peace novel' -- Guardian‘A stimulating firework display of a book … Crude Britannia demonstrates that, even in the midst of the pressures of practical struggle against the threat of extinction, historical understanding matters’ -- ‘The Ecologist’Table of ContentsList of Maps and Table List of Tracks Prologue: The Last Living Rose PART I: 1940–1979 1. The Whole World Was Aflame روشنايي آسمانها .2 : The Brightness of the Heavens 3. Baby, You Can Drive My Car 4. Dirt Behind the Daydream 5. Only One Road to Paradise PART II: 1979–2008 6. And If You Tolerate This Your Children Will Be Next 7. Tuireadh: Lament 8. Suude ne gbo gima de: The Eye of the Blind 9. Local Hero 10. Stanlow PART III: 2008–2020 11. This Bitter Earth 12. Rough Trade 13. Nexus of Outrage 14. Heading for Extinction Epilogue: The Commonwealth of Wind Notes Selected Bibliography Acknowledgements Index

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Book SynopsisTrade Review"This is an insightful, extremely innovative, and much-needed book. In revealing the histories, genealogies, and geographies of our ‘logistical world,’ The Deadly Life of Logistics opens up crucial issues of contemporary politics that are all too often, as Deborah Cowen says, rendered ‘invisible in plain sight’ by their very ubiquity and normality. Blending deep genealogical insight, social and political theory, and topical contemporary case studies, the book’s fusion is tremendously powerful. It is an immense achievement." —Mimi Sheller, Drexel University"Fascinating, informative and politically engaged."—We Make Money Not Art"The Deadly Life of Logistics is both an important contribution to understandings of globalization, security, and economy, and an opening to further inquiry on the political and economic geographies of the material movement of goods."—Antipode"Thought provoking."—Consumption Markets and Culture"Cowen’s The Deadly Life of Logistics: Mapping Violence in Global Trade is a welcome contribution, clearly showing how something as purely technical as logistics has turned into a phenomenon shaping politics in several different relams, and will surely be a good read for those interested in political geography, critical geopolitics, labor rights, the history of logistics, and international relations."—International Studies Review"Cowen’s [The Deadly Life of Logistics]provides a much-needed alternative and critical reading of the spatial organization of logistics. It is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the changing nature of economic space in neoliberal economies."—The Canadian Geographer"Cowen’s work rightfully challenges the dominant discourses that have pervaded the academic debates on logistics."—Cultural Geography"Cowen generates a comprehensive historic and contemporary critique of the everyday violence associated with global trade."—Human GeographyTable of ContentsContentsAbbreviationsIntroduction: The Citizenship of Stuff in the Global Social Factory1. The Revolution in Logistics: “America’s Last Dark Continent”2. From National Borders to Global Seams: The Rise of Supply Chain Security3. The Labor of Logistics: Just-in-Time Jobs4. The Geo-economics of Piracy: The ‘Somali Pirate’ and the Remaking of International Law5. Logistics Cities: The “Urban Heart” of EmpireConclusion: Rough Trade? Sex, Death, and the Queer ‘Nature’ of CirculationAcknowledgmentsNotesBibliographyIndex

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Book SynopsisNew from the No.1 Sunday Times bestselling author of Prisoners of Geography; We feel more divided than ever.; This riveting analysis tells you why.; Walls are going up. Nationalism and identity politics are on the rise once more. Thousands of miles of fences and barriers have been erected in the past ten years, and they are redefining our political landscape. ; There are many reasons why we erect walls, because we are divided in many ways: wealth, race, religion, politics. In Europe the ruptures of the past decade threaten not only European unity, but in some countries liberal democracy itself. In China, the Party's need to contain the divisions wrought by capitalism will define the nation's future. In the USA the rationale for the Mexican border wall taps into the fear that the USA will no longer be a white majority country in the course of this century.; Understanding what has divided us, past and present, is essential to understanding much of what's going on in the world today. Covering China; the USA; Israel and Palestine; the Middle East; the Indian Subcontinent; Africa; Europe and the UK, bestselling author Tim Marshall presents a gripping and unflinching analysis of the fault lines that will shape our world for years to come.Trade Review**** “Informative and timely … a readable primer on the world’s biggest problems” – Daily Express; `A timely and exhilarating clamber over the walls of history' - Peter Frankopan, author of The Silk Roads; "Striking words ... Tim Marshall performs the daunting, yet highly pertinent, task of trying to make sense of one of the biggest issues of our times: in a world that is increasingly globalised, a backlash apparently grows ever stronger. By taking a global view, Divided successfully brings some much-needed perspective" - Northern SlantTable of ContentsCONTENTS; Introduction 1; 1 China 7; 2 USA 35; 3 Israel and Palestine 67; 4 The Middle East 95; 5 The Indian Subcontinent 119; 6 Africa 151; 7 Europe 179; 8 UK 213; Conclusion 243; Bibliography 253; Acknowledgements 258; Index 259

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Book SynopsisBOOK OF THE YEAR, The Times, Guardian and Prospect'Fascinating and instructive... his decency and pragmatism shine through.' The Times'Candid, valuable and insightful.' ObserverSince the EU referendum of 2016, British politics has witnessed a barrage of crises, resignations and general elections. Theresa May's premiership was the most turbulent of all. In her darkest hour, following the disastrous 2017 election, she turned to Gavin Barwell to help restore her battered authority. He would become her chief of staff for the next two years - a period punctuated by Brexit negotiations, domestic tragedy, and intense political drama.In this gripping insider memoir, Barwell reveals what really went on in the corridors of power - and sheds a vital light on May, the most inscrutable of modern prime ministers. He was by her side when she met Donald Trump, heard about the poisoning of the Skripals in Salisbury, and responded to the Grenfell Tower fire. He was also at the centre of Brexit talks with foreign leaders and MPs from across the house, including Boris Johnson, Jeremy Corbyn and Keir Starmer. Revealing how government operates during times of crisis, this is the definitive record of a momentous episode in Britain's recent political history.Trade ReviewA candid, valuable and insightful account of two hugely consequential years of history. Read it if you want to fully understand why we are where we are today. * Observer *Barwell writes with a humility and honesty that makes Chief of Staff a fascinating and instructive book... his decency and pragmatism shine through the pages of his book. * The Times *An important historical document and the ultimate insiders story of how a government was slowly and painfully overwhelmed. A meticulous account of a tortured period of our politics, revealing for the first time what really happened in Downing Street. * Laura Kuenssberg, Political Editor of BBC News *Chiefs of staff at No. 10 see more of what is happening than anyone, often more even than the prime ministers themselves. This fascinating account takes us deeper than anyone before into the opaque mysteries of the turbulent premiership of Theresa May. * Sir Anthony Seldon, author of May at 10 *Chief of Staff takes us beyond the Corridors of Power and provides a unique insight into the nerve centre of decision-making in No.10 Downing Street. * Gordon Brown, former UK Prime Minister *'Gavin Barwell was in the room where it happens. This is a riveting, first-hand account of Britain's white-knuckle ride through the years after Brexit. Read it if you want to understand the country we live in today.' * George Osborne, former UK Chancellor of the Exchequer *An important book. It explains how the prime minister's office works, which means it shows how we are governed. It is a window on one of the most important periods of modem political history: the Brexit negotiation years. Barwell is candid about the mistakes that were made, about how emotion and stupidity will often trump reason, and about the comedy of so much of government. Essential reading for anyone with even a passing interest in politics. * Robert Peston, Political Editor, ITV News *Excellent * Daniel Finkelstein, Times *Table of Contents1: Introduction 2: Appointment 3: Steadying the Ship 4: Building a Team 5: Working with Sir Humphrey 6: Crisis Management 7: Strategy 8: The Brexit Challenge 9: A Place with No Government 10: Dealing with the Cabinet 11: Shuffling the Pack 12: Media Relations 13: A Tale of Two Conference Speeches 14: Dealing with The Donald 15: National Security 16: Authorising the Use of Force 17: Negotiating with Brussels 18: Chequers and Doing the Deal 19: A Lucky Break 20: Parliamentary Shenanigans 21: Talking to the Opposition 22: Time's Up 23: What Can You Achieve in Two Months? 24: Leaving Narnia

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Book SynopsisTrade ReviewA highly intelligent, fact-based defense of the virtues of an open, competitive economy and society. -- Fareed Zakaria * Global Public Square (CNN) *The one thing the American right and left increasingly agree on is that trade, capital flows, and immigration damage many if not most Americans. On the contrary, Professor Clausing of Reed College argues, openness to the world economy is a source of substantial gain. Neither liberal trade nor technological change is the enemy, it is foolish, even malevolent, policies that fail to help people and places to adjust to change and exploit new opportunities. * Financial Times *Amid a growing backlash against international economic interdependence, Clausing makes a strong case in favor of foreign trade in goods and services, the cross-border movement of capital, and immigration. This valuable book amounts to a primer on globalization. -- Richard N. Cooper * Foreign Affairs *An even-handed, fair-minded and up-to-the-minute primer on some of today’s most important economic debates. In [Clausing’s] consideration of who gains and who loses from economic openness, she makes a stout, evidence-led defense of the worldview disparaged as ‘globalism’ by both the Right and the Left. -- Oliver Wiseman * Standpoint *Takes on anti-globalization arguments from the left and right to make the case for open economies, while also investigating the domestic policy interventions required to address inequality in the United States. -- Rebecca Friedman Lissner * War on the Rocks *Global integration will not work if it means local disintegration. Kim Clausing’s important book lays out the economics of globalization and, more important, shows how globalization can be made to work for the vast majority of Americans. I hope the next President of the United States takes its lessons on board. -- Lawrence H. Summers, Harvard University, former Secretary of the TreasuryIt is all too easy to blame the recent troubles of advanced economies—including slower growth, rising inequality, and lower social mobility—on economic globalization. Kimberly Clausing’s comprehensive but crystal-clear new book shows that ‘the fault lies not in our stars, but in ourselves’: if only the political will is there, national policy can harness globalization as a force for inclusive growth. This is a message that thoughtful citizens of every political stripe need to absorb. -- Maurice Obstfeld, University of California, Berkeley, and former Chief Economist, International Monetary FundOpen provides a vitally important corrective to the current populist moment. Clausing brings the underlying economics to life, showing that walls won’t keep prosperity trapped within; they’ll keep new ideas out, deter valuable foreign capital, close off investment opportunities, prevent our businesses from learning from others, and destroy the vigor that comes with a vibrant immigrant community. Most important, Open points the way to a kinder, gentler version of globalization that ensures that the gains are shared by all. -- Justin Wolfers, University of MichiganAnyone interested in the biggest economic debates of our time would benefit from reading Open. Kimberly Clausing marshals a wide range of evidence and analysis to address the question of how to advance the prospects of the middle class. Her answer is a combination of timeless truths about the importance of openness updated in often novel ways to address the challenges of today’s global economy. -- Jason Furman, Harvard University, former Chairman of the Council of Economic AdvisersClausing, a respected international economist and one of the world’s leading experts on multinational firms’ responses to tax policy, has created a clarion call for a return to reason by polarizing forces on both sides of the political isle. There is something in here for people on both sides to love and to hate, but plenty for everyone to learn. -- Katheryn Russ, University of California, DavisShows that globalization and free trade can, in fact, be redesigned to help struggling ordinary Americans. * ProMarket *

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Book SynopsisWith the Russian invasion of Ukraine in 2022, warnings about a 'new Cold War' proliferated. In fact, argues Gilbert Achcar in this timely new study, the Cold War has been ongoing since the turn of the century. Racing to solidify its position in the 1990s as the last remaining superpower, the US alienated Russia and China, pushing them closer and rebooting the 'old' Cold War with disastrous implications. Vladimir Putin's consequent rise and imperialist reinvention, along with Xi Jinping's own ascendancy and increasingly autocratic tendencies, would, respectively, culminate in the murderous invasion of Ukraine and mounting tensions over Taiwan and trade. Was all this inevitable? Will these three world powers' permanent readiness to war write the story of the twenty-first century? What comes after Ukraine? What might the contours of a more peaceful world look like? These questions and many others are addressed in this essential book by one of the most astute and seasoned analysts of international relations.

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Book SynopsisA renowned historian eludes the pitfalls of partisanship and tackles one of the world’s most perplexing and divisive issuesTrade Review"Gloomy, concise, and spot-on."—Commentary“I urge you, in the strongest terms, to read One State, Two States. . . I very much hope that it will ignite a freer, more honest, radically different conversation on the left, one informed by historical knowledge and current realities rather than the fantasies—alternately sentimental, infantile and grandiose—for which such a high price has been paid by all sides.”—Susie Linfield, TruthDig.com“Morris is one of the most authoritative historians of the Israeli-Arab conflict. In his new book, he presents and up-to-date interpretation and suggestions for its solution.”—Walter Laqueur“What is so striking about Morris’s work as a historian is that it does not flatter anyone’s prejudices, least of all his own.”—David Remnick, New Yorker"Gloomy, concise, and spot-on."—Commentary * Commentary *“I urge you, in the strongest terms, to read One State, Two States. . . I very much hope that it will ignite a freer, more honest, radically different conversation on the left, one informed by historical knowledge and current realities rather than the fantasies—alternately sentimental, infantile and grandiose—for which such a high price has been paid by all sides.”—Susie Linfield, TruthDig.com -- Susie Linfield * TruthDig.com *“Morris details the various proposals for a ‘one-state’ or ‘two-state’ solution to the conflict that should have followed the UN General Assembly division of the territory and termination of the [British Mandate]. In a final chapter, he considers correctly that neither solution is practical or realistic. The best option, he feels, would be a West Bank-Gaza-Jordan confederation with Israel. . . . Recommended.”—W. Spencer, Choice -- W. Spencer * Choice *“Morris is one of the most authoritative historians of the Israeli-Arab conflict. In his new book, he presents and up-to-date interpretation and suggestions for its solution.”—Walter Laqueur -- Walter Laqueur“What is so striking about Morris’s work as a historian is that it does not flatter anyone’s prejudices, least of all his own.”—David Remnick, New Yorker -- David Remnick * New Yorker *"A rich and persuasive account of just how deep-seated and historically rooted the antagonism is between Israelis and Palestinians."--Ira Smolensky, Magill's Literary Annual 2010 -- Ira Smolensky * Magill's Literary Annual 2010 *

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Book SynopsisTrade Review"Shortlisted for the BISA Susan Strange Best Book Prize, British International Studies Association"

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Book SynopsisHamas rules Gaza and the lives of the two million Palestinians who live there. Demonized in media and policy debates, various accusations and critical assumptions have been used to justify extreme military action against Hamas. The reality of Hamas is, of course, far more complex. Neither a democratic political party nor a terrorist group, Hamas is a multifaceted liberation organization, one rooted in the nationalist claims of the Palestinian people. Hamas Contained offers the first history of the group on its own terms. Drawing on interviews with organization leaders, as well as publications from the group, Tareq Baconi maps Hamas's thirty-year transition from fringe military resistance towards governance. He breaks new ground in questioning the conventional understanding of Hamas and shows how the movement's ideology ultimately threatens the Palestinian struggle and, inadvertently, its own legitimacy. Hamas's reliance on armed struggle as a means of liberation has failed in the face of a relentless occupation designed to fragment the Palestinian people. As Baconi argues, under Israel's approach of managing rather than resolving the conflict, Hamas's demand for Palestinian sovereignty has effectively been neutralized by its containment in Gaza. This dynamic has perpetuated a deadlock characterized by its brutality—and one that has made permissible the collective punishment of millions of Palestinian civilians. Trade Review"Groundbreaking, rigorously researched, and strikingly fair-minded, Hamas Contained is essential reading to understand Middle East politics today. Tareq Baconi weaves a counter-narrative, upending common assumptions about the controversial Islamic organization. He persuasively argues that there can be no solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict without diplomatic engagement with Hamas."—Avi Shlaim, author of The Iron Wall: Israel and the Arab World"Hamas Contained is by far the best book on this vital topic. Meticulous and deeply sourced, this is essential reading for anyone with a serious interest in Hamas, Palestine, Israel, or Islamist political movements anywhere in the Middle East."—Rashid Khalidi, author of Brokers of Deceit: How the U.S. Has Undermined Peace in the Middle East"Tareq Baconi has written a detailed and thoughtful book about the history of Hamas and its effect on the Palestinian national movement. Avoiding black and white simplifications, Baconi puts the story of Hamas within its proper context—the tragedy of an occupation."—Marwan Muasher, Vice President, Carnegie Endowment for International Peace"Judicious and impartial, this important work adds nuance to the portrait of one of the Middle East's most divisive players."—Publishers Weekly"[Hamas's] status as an important component of the Palestinian struggle against Israel is ably chronicled by Tareq Baconi in Hamas Contained: The Rise and Pacification of Palestinian Resistance... [It] is well worth reading even today because it is thorough and comprehensive in scale and scope."—Sheldon Kirshner, The Times of Israel"[Hamas Contained] probably gives the fullest background to the current situation in Gaza."—Duncan Bowie, ChartistTable of Contents1. The Rise of Islamic Palestinian Nationalism 2. Military Resistance Comes Undone 3. The Politics of Resistance 4. Strangling Hamas 5. Institutionalizing the Division 6. Regional Misfortunes Conclusion: Containment and Pacification

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Book SynopsisThis incisive biography traces Rabin's lifelong impact on the shaping of Israel, examining his remarkable dual career - as the soldier who oversaw Israel's greatest military victory, the Six Day War, and the statesman who set it on the road to peace.

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Book SynopsisWe often think of the Balkans as a region beset by turmoil and backwardness, but from late antiquity to the present it has been a dynamic meeting place of cultures and religions. Marie-Janine Calic invites us to reconsider the history of this intriguing, diverse region as essential to the story of global Europe.Trade ReviewPanoramic and convincingly presented history of the region…Calic is an authoritative guide. Her book is a work of ambitious chronological and thematic scope, taking the story from Alexander the Great to the present day. -- Tony Barber * Financial Times *Since the early twentieth century, southeastern Europe has been disparaged as ‘the Balkans,’ a term that often connotes tribalism and violence. In this detailed and comprehensive history, Calic nimbly seeks to broaden the way the region is understood. The book ranges from the advent of Ottoman dominion to the collapse of Yugoslavia. -- Larry Wolff * Foreign Affairs *Calic provides a sweeping overview of the history of this region and its people, from the late antiquity to the present day… Informed, comprehensive, and methodical, The Great Cauldron provides valuable insight into southeastern Europe and its turbulent past. -- Iva Glisic * Australian Book Review *Covers in detail the history of a geographical region that currently comprises more than a dozen nations, from its earliest recorded tribes through to modernity…An impressive work. -- Andrea Tallarita * PopMatters *An outstanding book…An original and thought-provoking history of Southeastern Europe that should be read by both specialists and scholars whose expertise lies elsewhere, but who seek to understand the region. This is a fascinating story of how global ideas—transcontinental, transborder, and translocal contacts, exchanges, and movements of peoples and goods—shaped Europe’s southeast, the region also known, frequently pejoratively, as the Balkans…A monumental work. -- Dejan Djokić * Journal of Modern History *An indispensable new history of southeastern Europe…It stands out for its integration of economic and demographic data with political and cultural history. * Choice *The best text by far on the history of the Balkans yet written, and I suspect it will remain the standard for a long time. -- Nick Miller * Slavonic and East European Review *On rare but memorable occasions, a book comes along that fills a vacuum one did not know existed. In an era when nationalist stereotypes and conflicts dominate, Calic tells a totally absorbing, transformative story of the far more significant role of transborder, and even global exchanges of people, ideas, and things that have defined the Balkan Peninsula—from Romania to Albania to Greece—over two thousand years. So much for the myth of a peripheral backwater! Her eloquent narrative tells us much more than the story of southeastern Europe; it also sheds light on our interpretations of contemporary history and our assumptions even beyond Europe. -- Susan L. Woodward, author of Balkan TragedyCalic convincingly and thoroughly shows the Balkans to be a quintessential ‘world region,’ one whose historical character has been decidedly cosmopolitan, diverse, and dynamic. She successfully challenges and overturns the usual assumptions that uncritically reproduce stereotypes of Balkan parochialism and isolationism. -- Edin Hajdarpasic, author of Whose Bosnia?There has long been a need for a comprehensive, new history of Europe’s controversial quadrant. Calic’s lucid, authoritative account, from ancient times and ethnic origins to warfare and recovery since 1989, is a stellar example of the new global history. She sees southeastern Europe as a cauldron in which its peoples and polities are stirred together with Europe’s longest and largest set of transnational and transcultural influences. Throughout, she shows how these interrelations belied any separate Balkan definition of this all-too-accessible corner of the continent. -- John R. Lampe, author of Yugoslavia as History

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Book SynopsisThe 1947 UN resolution to partition Palestine irrevocably changed the political landscape of the Middle East, giving rise to six full-fledged wars between Arabs and Jews, countless armed clashes, blockades, and terrorism. This title tells the story from both the Arab and Jewish perspectives.Trade Review“Tightly argued.”—Neil Caplan, Times Literary Supplement“Ephraim Karsh’s Palestine Betrayed tells in rich detail the story of the fall of the British Mandate and the rise of Israel, going a long way towards doing justice to the history at hand.”—Seth Frantzman, Jerusalem Post“A brave and exceedingly important piece of work.”—David Vital, author of A People Apart“With Isaiah Friedman, Efraim Karsh is the preeminent scholar-spokesman of the Revisionist (politically-rightist) Movement in Zionism. I consider this latest of Karsh’s books, Palestine Betrayed, a work of meticulous, even exhaustive scholarship which must be taken with the greatest seriousness and respect by historians of diverse points of view. Indeed, any student of modern Israel will ignore at their peril its sheer cornucopia of factual revelations.”—Howard Sachar“This is the story of the triple betarayal of Palestine by Britsh colonial masters, Arab despots and Palestinian demagogues. A must read for anyone interested in the Middle East’s longest-running conflict.”—Amir Taheri

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Book SynopsisAn expanded and up-to-date edition of this classic historyTrade ReviewOf the numerous books devoted to the ISraeli-Palestinian conflict, Univ. of Michigan political science professor Tessler's contribution certainly ranks among the most extensive and thorough. Given the highly polemical nature of the discourse over Israel/Palestine, Tessler's ability to provide a balanced account of the dispute should be commended. ... Recommended.March 2010 * Choice *[Tessler is] thoughtful, well-informed and resolutely fair-minded . . . rigorous and commiserative alike, and his gloss on the fallout from the creation of Israel, which included a counterflow of millions of Jewish immigrants from the Arab world, is among the best things in the book. -- David Schoenbaum * New York Times Book Review *[A] very informative and well-researched book. . . It is beyond doubt that Tessler's narrative of the Israeli–Palestinian struggle makes his volume an essential textbook for any student of the conflict.46.2 2010 * Middle Eastern Studies *Table of ContentsPreface to the Second EditionPrefaceA Note on TransliterationPart I. Jews and Arabs Before the Conflict: The Congruent Origins of Modern Zionism and Arab Nationalism1. Jewish History and the Emergence of Modern Political Zionism2. Arab History and the Origins of Nationalism in the Arab WorldPart II. Emergence and History of the Conflict to 19483. The Conflict Takes Shape4. The Dual Society in Mandatory PalestinePart III. Routinization of the Conflict, 1948-19675. The Palestinian Disaster and Basic Issues after 19486. Israel and the Arab States through June 1967Part IV. The Palestinian Dimension Reemerges: From the June War through Camp David7. Postwar Diplomacy and the Rise of the Palestine Resistance Movement8. Israel, the Palestinians, and the Occupied Territories in the 1970sPart V. The High Price of Stalemate and Futile Diplomacy in the 1980s9. Violent Confrontations in the Early 1980s10. Futile Diplomacy in the Mid-1980sPart VI. Efforts to Break the Stalemate: From the Intifada through the Oslo Peace Process11. The Intifada and Beyond12. The Oslo Peace ProcessEpilogue: The Post-Oslo Period

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