The Struggle for Europe: The Turbulent History of a Divided Continent 1945 to the Present

What a marvelous book! An exercise in erudition in post-WWII European history, this book serves as a perfect remedy for today’s ubiquitous demagoguery and profound ignorance of the extraordinary transformation Europe, with American democratic guidance and tremendous economic help, managed to achieve in a relatively short period of time. The tome captures the evolution of a continent from a smoldering pile of rubble (the result of stupid rivalries fueled by even more idiotic nationalist ideologies) to a trade&cooperation-oriented Union. The incredible amount of historical data is distilled into a clear, concise, and gripping narrative, a gift few historians are bestowed with, making William Hitchcock’s tour de force a must-read masterpiece.

Fabulously written account of the history of modern Europe from 1945 to the present. Should be read in every Modern European History class, whether in High School or University or for your own pleasure.

This book provides a very good political overview of post-WWII Europe. If you want a better understanding of the reasons for the cold war, this book is worthwhile.

How much do you actually know about Europe post-WWII? If you are like the majority of people you'll know they made it through the Cold War and that they are still around and host an Olympic event every now and then. Hitchcock's "The Struggle for Europe" will open you eyes, will expand your knowledge and will elaborate on all of the deep, burning questions you've ever had about Europe. Sitting down and thinking about my knowledge (even as a history major) prior to reading this book, I am truly shocked at how little I knew. There is so much here in this book and so much brought to the foreground that it's amazing it all fits together. That's another point I wanted to emphasize. This doesn't read like a textbook, doesn't read like a lecture, doesn't read like anything I've had the chance of diving into before. You'll absolutely love it, you'll crave the information and you will forever be thankful the veil has been lifted. 5 Informational Stars out of 5!

Very good book. Bought for class but fascinating read in its own right. Great shipping from seller and good condition, as described.

Good read for understanding European History.

great

Picked this up thinking it would be a interesting subject - and it is. Unfortunately, the writing style does not make it an enjoyable read. It is written in a turgid and sometimes ponderous style. Sentences are frequently overlong. The typeface for the hardcopy edition is fairly small, yet the average paragraph is at least 2/3 of a page long - some even exceed an entire printed page. The author and his editors seem to have disregarded the basic elements of effective writing that I learned many years ago in high school. A major detractor from what appears to be a well researched book.

l'Europa, il continente più ricco dal punto di vista della storia, dell'arte, delle scoperte scientifiche, umanistiche, ma in perenne lotta con sé stesso e gli altri. Una storia che potrebbe ripetersi

A well-written account of the evolution of Europe, starting in the ruins of World War II, and ending with the EU as we know it. This scholarly analysis of how we came to the present state of European political development clearly indicates how the colonial retreat and American economic expansion contributed to the Europe of today.

I pride myself on keeping up to date on world affairs but I was taken aback at the gaps in my knowledge on reading this. Highly readable, this is an excellent overview of the last 60 years in Europe. Hitchcock's narrative of the Yugoslav civil war is particularly impressive. Highly recommended.

good