Death of a Nation - A New History of Germany

by Stephen R. A'Barrow

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 so often defined by the events of World War Two. 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.

Genres: History

640 pages, Hardcover

First published May 8, 2015

About the author

British author, Stephen R A'Barrow, has spent some fifteen years travelling and working in Latin America and the past six years living and working as an expat in Brazil.

After many years of international travel for his education business, a’ Barrow not only chose to settle in Brazil, but to marry his ‘prettiest agent,’ put down roots and raise a family in the mountainous region of Minas Gerais in Brazil (five hours by car north east of Rio de Janeiro), a state the size of France, known as one of its most traditional and old fashioned in terms of values and customs.

Reviews

[Neal · Rating 5 out of 5]

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.