Out of Ashes: A New History of Europe in the Twentieth Century

by Konrad H. Jarausch

A sweeping history of twentieth-century Europe, "Out of Ashes" tells the story of an era of unparalleled violence and barbarity yet also of humanity, prosperity, and promise.

Konrad Jarausch describes how the European nations emerged from the nineteenth century with high hopes for continued material progress and proud of their imperial command over the globe, only to become embroiled in the bloodshed of World War I, which brought an end to their optimism and gave rise to competing democratic, communist, and fascist ideologies. He shows how the 1920s witnessed renewed hope and a flourishing of modernist art and literature, but how the decade ended in economic collapse and gave rise to a second, more devastating world war and genocide on an unprecedented scale. Jarausch further explores how Western Europe surprisingly recovered due to American help and political integration. Finally, he examines how the Cold War pushed the divided continent to the brink of nuclear annihilation, and how the unforeseen triumph of liberal capitalism came to be threatened by Islamic fundamentalism, global economic crisis, and an uncertain future.

A gripping narrative, "Out of Ashes" explores the paradox of the European encounter with modernity in the twentieth century, shedding new light on why it led to cataclysm, inhumanity, and self-destruction, but also social justice, democracy, and peace.

Genres: History, Nonfiction, European History, World War II, War, World War I, Academic

888 pages, Paperback

First published May 25, 2015

About the author

Konrad H. Jarausch is the Lurcy Professor of European Civilization at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

Reviews

[Andrew Davis · Rating 3 out of 5]

I never thought that one can present history of the twentieth century's Europe in one volume. Despite its length (over 800 pages), this book seems to confirm my view. A number of important events that shaped the history of Europe are missing and an extended scope of the book, including the US perspective, make it a bit unwieldy. However, I must say that the book makes an interesting reading for those who already know a bit about this period of European history, as it is written in engaging style and focuses on a synthesis of main trends during that period, rather than the individual events.

[Brayden Raymond · Rating 4 out of 5]

Even though I jumped over some chapters to follow more closely to the course content associated with the book. I found it to be interesting almost all of the time and rarely too dry to absorb. It wasn't too difficult a read either which was very appealing considering some of the other readings in the course i read this book for. were extremely dense.

[William · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very well written insights into the parallels between twentieth century Europe and twenty-first century US.

[Shelly Reddinger · Rating 4 out of 5]

it took me a long time to read this book primary because it was so packed with information. I have attention span issues when it comes to concentrated books that are packed full of facts. I like to read in small sections and let that sink in before moving on.

While reading this book I have learned so much about European history. So much more than what was ever covered in my years in school. There is information on all the wars that happened even ones I never really had heard of.

I would highly recommend this book to anyone who loves history, enjoys reading about the history of the European wars, and is interested in how Europe became what it is today.

[Frederick Widdowson · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a very interesting survey of Europe in the 20th century. It is an apologetic and therefore does make some statements that unfortunately might be considered cheerleading. However, it does give an American a better view of the whys and wherefores of European policy and politics. I strongly recommend it if you are a student of history and have a mind willing to try to understand people who seem so different in mindset and expectations of government and life.

[Helan Ahmad · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5
I only read Out of Ashes for my uni semester, but it was actually surprising. Even though it was heavy to read and at times difficult, it had some history jokes throughout that made it more enjoyable—I even caught myself laughing out loud sometimes. It shows how Europe went from war and dictators to peace and democracy. Some parts focused more on Western Europe, but overall, it was better than I expected
.......Thoughts and prayers that I don't fail my oral exam again

[Kevin Moynihan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book. Each paragraph a succinct summary from a top scholar in the subject addressed. To string together all of twentieth-century Europe under this approach is impressive. Will re-read numerous sections for many years to come.

[Sandy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really well written history.
Downside: It's over 800 pages

[Chris S. · Rating 4 out of 5]

An exhaustive history of the times. Covers a lot of ground, well worth reading.

[Lizzy · Rating 2 out of 5]

Didn't finish one of the chapters or the end but it's 800+ pages so who cares. don't read this book though

[Olivia Saccucci · Rating 3 out of 5]

Ok I skipped some of this book, just to follow my course , but I’m still marking it as read.
Real history slay though!

[Uncas Zeuthen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent explanation how Europe went from World Wars to the modern time, literally the title says it all.

[Celena · Rating 3 out of 5]

never in my life have i read this much in such a short amount of time

[Kevin Zwiefelhofer · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a good book with the first have discussing WWI & WWII and the later half reviewing the political unification of Europe built on its experience from their conflicts devastation and the renewal of the imporance in humanity.

[✧ mari ✧ · Rating 3 out of 5]

Much of this book was too "filler" and too vague to be useful in my opinion. The only reason I'm giving it 3 whole stars is because I did manage to learn quite a bit, that I didn't know before, but I really really wish it hadn't taken 800 pages to get there.

[Raven]

Can't wait to read this goodreads win!