Description
Book SynopsisSince the 1989, fall of Communism in Eastern Europe, Romania, arguably the most regimented of states in the Soviet bloc, has struggled with the transition from totalitarian state to democratic nation. This title provides an overview of Romania's political and social history, focusing on both its national identity as well as legacy of Soviet rule.
Trade Review"Gallagher thinks in neat, clear categories and writes with a style to match." * Foreign Affairs *
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Modern Romania makes a significant contribution to the political history of Romania and Central Europe, as well as to the literature on the dynamics of political and social change in the region. The book has special merit in identifying a number of factors that threaten the stability of democracy in Romaniathe most insidious of these being the endemic corruption which affects all aspects of society. Gallagher sounds a timely warning note about Romanias future." -- Dennis Deletant,author of Ceausescu and the Securitate
"[T]his volume serves as an excellent introduction...For those familiar with the country, Gallagher offers much food for thought, and although some may not agree with the tenor of his conclusions, there can be no doubt that he has pointed to some of the important issues that Romania must grapple with as it enters this new phase of European Union membership." * Slavic Review *
Table of ContentsAcknowledgements BiographiesAcronyms Maps Introduction Chapters CONTENTS 1. Democracy constrained by Backwardness, 1866-1945 2. Return to Underdevelopment: the Imposition and Consequences of Communist Rule, 1945-1989 3. Comrades Discard the Ideology but Conserve 4. Romania Adrift, 1992-1996 5. 'In Office but not in Power': Constantinescu's Honeymoon, 1996-1998 6. A Broken-backed Coalition 7. Staggering to the Finishing Line 8. Taking Things to Extremes: the 2000 Elections and their Outcome 9. A Messiah for Romania? Corneliu Vadim Tudor and the Greater Romania Party 10. Looters of the State by Appointment of Brussels: Return of the Social Democrats, 2001-2003 Notes Bibliography Index
