Description
Book SynopsisCaldron of Conflict tells the story of Eastern Europe in the tumultuous, often violent years 1918-1945. After introducing the region, Wynot traces the differing paths each nation took from imperial rule to independence following World War I. The author next explores how each fared in the two decades of peace, when so many high political and economic hopes were dashed on the rocks of antidemocratic movements and the financial reefs of the Great Depression. It concludes with a survey of World War II and its aftermath.
Caldron of Conflict is essential reading for anyone trying to comprehend the recent and ongoing destruction in this explosive and pivotal region ofthe world.
Table of ContentsForeword vii
Preface xi
1. Eastern Europe: Caldron of Conflict 1
The Balkan Powderkeg 7
2. The Birth of Independent Eastern Europe 10
The “Subject Nationalities” at War 11
The Balkan States at War 18
The “Peace Settlement” in Eastern Europe 19
The “Peace Settlements” Evaluated 25
3. Growing Pains, 1920-1929 28
General Problems Common to Eastern Europe 28
The Newly Created States 32
The Balkan Kingdoms 42
4. Toward The Abyss, 1929-1939 52
The Great Depression 53
States Specifically Targeted for Conquest by Hitler 56
The Yugoslav Case 64
The Pro-Axis States 68
The Albanian Exception 76
5. Journey’s End: World War II, 1939-1945 81
The “Victim States” 82
The Axis Allies 95
Epilogue 108
Bibliographical Essay 112
Index 132
Maps:
Eastern Europe, circa 1900 3
Eastern Europe, 1923 26
Eastern Europe, 1939-1947 106
