The Fall of Fortress Europe

by Fred Majdalany

Originally published between 1920-70, The History of Civilization was a landmark in early twentieth century publishing. It was published at a formative time within the social sciences, and during a period of decisive historical discovery. The aim of the general editor, C.K. Ogden, was to summarize the most up to date findings and theories of historians, anthropologists, archaeologists and sociologists. This reprinted material is available as a set or in the following * Prehistory and Historical EthnographySet of 12: 0-415-15611-4: 800.00* Greek CivilizationSet of 7: 0-415-15612-2: 450.00* Roman CivilizationSet of 6: 0-415-15613-0: 400.00* Eastern CivilizationsSet of 10: 0-415-15614-9: 650.00* Judaeo-Christian CivilizationSet of 4: 0-415-15615-7: 250.00* European CivilizationSet of 11: 0-415-15616-5: 700.00

442 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1969

About the author

Fareed "Fred" Majdalany was the son of a Manchester-based Lebanese family. He worked as a journalist, drama critic and theatre publicist pre-war. When the Seocnd World War began, he volunteered and was commissioned into the 2nd Battalion, Lancashire Fusiliers in 1940. Majdalany served in North Africa and Italy and was awarded the Military Cross. After the war he resumed his career as a journalist and published novels and military histories, all of which were well-received.

Reviews

[Damian · Rating 4 out of 5]

A surprisingly compelling read. The book is peppered with excerpts from the diaries of key German leaders to provide insight into the machinations of the German war machine in WW2 which from this point of view was far less efficient than popular stereotypes would lead us to believe. One of those rare books that balances sufficient facts with good storytelling and writing, it is a history book you will enjoy reading. You may even find yourself sympathizing with some of the main 'characters', such as Rommel as he battles the Italians for supplies, the furer for reason and for Germany out of Duty.

Probably not the book on WW2 you want to read if you are looking for battle plans, statistics or a reference book in general.