Stephen R A'Barrow
Author, Traveller and Historian
Death of a Nation - A New History of Germany
Reviewed in ‘History of War’ magazine.
"A meticulous look at the history of a nation that is too often defined by the events of World War II"
*****
DEATH OF A NATION - A New History of Germany
"Death of a Nation is an engrossing, meticulously researched history of Germany from 105 BC to the present day, vividly illustrating the rich and complex past of a nation that is too often defined by the events of World War II."
The author, Stephen R A’Barrow, spent twenty years researching, travelling and writing to compile this account of the country’s varied and fascinating history. As a result, he proves that Germany’s past has so much more of interest than simply the twelve years of domination by Hitler and National Socialism.
The book opens with the battles of the Roman Empire in the first century BC; the role of the Holy Roman Empire in the Crusades; German settlement across Central and Eastern Europe and the Thirty Years War. The author goes on to address the militarist stereotype of Prussia; Prussia and Germany’s rise to shatter the European balance of power; the causes and consequences of the wars initiated by Germany and how they shaped the modern world.
One of the most important themes is the frequently overlooked question of the treatment of German civilians during the last days of World War Two and the immediate aftermath. Illuminating and authoritative, Death of a Nation seeks to provide an accurate understanding of German and European history, and how it affects the world we live in today.
Buy Death of a Nation on Amazon UK or Amazon US
ISBN 1910298492
In discussion with German President, Joachim Gauck
Review from ‘GoodReads’.
"Anyone interested in European history should read this. The history of Germany is, in effect, the history of Europe, so there's a vast number of interwoven events which are carefully picked apart and examined. Mr A'Barrow's prose is immensely readable, combining a compelling narrative with humour and sharp criticism, while at the same time feeling authoritative and concise.
It's a long read, yet well worth the time and effort. Book of the year for me.
The best history book I've ever read."
*****
Review from ‘Amazon.co.uk’.
"Death of a Nation is definitely an eye-opener. I learnt a huge amount from it and can honestly say that it has changed my perspective. The sections devoted to the aftermath of the Second World War are particularly poignant; it has certainly improved my understanding of the structure of Europe today. Death of a Nation is immaculately researched and easy to read – a very powerful study."
*****