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Berliński szach mat
Rozgrywki w powojennym Berlinie, opowiedziane jak nigdy dotąd przez mistrza powieści historycznej. Na konferencji w Jałcie Berlin został podzielony. Na papierze rozwiązanie to wydawało się pragmatyczne – Stany Zjednoczone, Wielka Brytania, Francja i Związek Sowiecki miały sprawować nadzór nad wyznaczonymi sektorami. Jednak kiedy nie było już wspólnego wroga w postaci hitlerowskich Niemiec, odżyły dawne animozje, podejrzliwość i wrogość. Rywalizujące ustroje, ideologie i osobowości sprawiły, że Berlin stał się nowym polem bitwy.
Milton w fascynujący sposób opisuje charyzmatyczne postacie rządzące czterema berlińskimi sektorami. Spotkania polityków, agenci, podstępne wybiegi, rywalizacja, osobiste dramaty – to wszystko jest esencją tej książki. Milton perfekcyjnie przedstawia rozgrywki, które miały nadać kształt i przypieczętować rozkład sił we współczesnym świecie. Przewidywanie następnych posunięć przeciwników przypomina mistrzowską partię szachów, a skutki tych działań są odczuwalne do dziś.
Milton w fascynujący sposób opisuje charyzmatyczne postacie rządzące czterema berlińskimi sektorami. Spotkania polityków, agenci, podstępne wybiegi, rywalizacja, osobiste dramaty – to wszystko jest esencją tej książki. Milton perfekcyjnie przedstawia rozgrywki, które miały nadać kształt i przypieczętować rozkład sił we współczesnym świecie. Przewidywanie następnych posunięć przeciwników przypomina mistrzowską partię szachów, a skutki tych działań są odczuwalne do dziś.
Hardcover
First published May 27, 2021
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About the author
Giles Milton
40 books584 followersBritish writer and journalist Giles Milton was born in Buckinghamshire in 1966. He has contributed articles for most of the British national newspapers as well as many foreign publications, and specializes in the history of travel and exploration. In the course of his researches, he has traveled extensively in Europe, the Middle East, Japan and the Far East, and the Americas.
Knowledgeable, insatiably curious and entertaining, Milton locates history's most fascinating—and most overlooked—stories and brings them to life in his books.
He lives in London, where he is a member of the Hakluyt Society, which is dedicated to reprinting the works of explorers and adventurers in scholarly editions, some of which he uses in his research. He wrote most of Samurai William in the London Library, where he loves the "huge reading room, large Victorian desks and creaking armchairs". At home and while traveling, he is ever on the lookout for new untold stories. Apparently he began researching the life of Sir John Mandeville for his book The Riddle and the Knight after Mandeville’s book Travels "literally fell off the shelf of a Paris bookstore" in which he was browsing.
Copyright BookBrowse.com 2007
Knowledgeable, insatiably curious and entertaining, Milton locates history's most fascinating—and most overlooked—stories and brings them to life in his books.
He lives in London, where he is a member of the Hakluyt Society, which is dedicated to reprinting the works of explorers and adventurers in scholarly editions, some of which he uses in his research. He wrote most of Samurai William in the London Library, where he loves the "huge reading room, large Victorian desks and creaking armchairs". At home and while traveling, he is ever on the lookout for new untold stories. Apparently he began researching the life of Sir John Mandeville for his book The Riddle and the Knight after Mandeville’s book Travels "literally fell off the shelf of a Paris bookstore" in which he was browsing.
Copyright BookBrowse.com 2007
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 199 reviews
August 11, 2021
You know you are reading a great book when you feel that you are part of the era the author is talking about, which makes narrative history one of my favorite genres. Checkmate in Berlin by Giles Milton falls into that category and reads like a fiction while maintaining the sanctity of one of the most pivotal historical moments of the postwar world. This book walks us through the art of diplomacy or in some cases chicanery used between the allied forces and the soviet union and how the events unfolded which lead to a broken city and a continent. Mr. Milton's narrative of the events makes it an immersive read, which makes you think twice before you put the book down. The author began the story as Russians enter the war torn city of Berlin and strip the country of everything that they were able to get their hands on with an intent to not leave much for the allied forces. Goons within the red army raped women and desecrated the populace. Fortunately, the allied forces reached the city and eventually learned the clandestine ways the soviets operated. The diplomatic battle between General Kotikov and Col. Howley is epic. Furthermore, the book sheds light on the indefatigability of the allied forces during the Siege which helped secure western Germany.
This will be one of the most satisfying books you will ever read. On a personal note, one night I had a dream of eating caviars and it was probably driven by Milton's exquisite description of soiree held at the time.
Note: Thank you Henry Holt publishing for providing me with an advanced reader's edition of such an eloquent read.
This will be one of the most satisfying books you will ever read. On a personal note, one night I had a dream of eating caviars and it was probably driven by Milton's exquisite description of soiree held at the time.
Note: Thank you Henry Holt publishing for providing me with an advanced reader's edition of such an eloquent read.
September 14, 2021
Terrific book for those uninitiated with the Cold War. Given we have returned to a new Cold War, it’s a decent starter.
It’s flaw is an overly British focus. But the author’s description of the siege of Berlin is breathtaking, even for one who knows the details.
It’s flaw is an overly British focus. But the author’s description of the siege of Berlin is breathtaking, even for one who knows the details.
September 11, 2022
Narrative History that reads like fiction. Beginning in 1945 when the Red Army raped and pillaged Berlin, the author takes us through the 4 years of postwar life in a city chopped into sectors and besieged by warring leaders.
The Allies intent was to work with Stalin in rebuilding what was destroyed. One man, Col. Frank "Howlin' Mad" Howley, saw through the Russian propaganda and fought relentlessly to build a democracy. Giles Milton's writing of the relationship between Howley and his Russian counterpart Gen. Alexander Kotikov brings this story to life. The reader is so entrenched in the story the book is hard to put down.
Highly recommended to all History nerds!
The Allies intent was to work with Stalin in rebuilding what was destroyed. One man, Col. Frank "Howlin' Mad" Howley, saw through the Russian propaganda and fought relentlessly to build a democracy. Giles Milton's writing of the relationship between Howley and his Russian counterpart Gen. Alexander Kotikov brings this story to life. The reader is so entrenched in the story the book is hard to put down.
Highly recommended to all History nerds!
June 11, 2021
Giles Milton’s exciting narrative of Berlin rising from the ruins of 1945 to its rebirth as as the Soviets backed down and lifted the blockade should not be missed. Written in an accessible style of popular history , Mr.Milton begins his story as the Russians enter the devastated city and take control with an iron hand. As the Soviets strip Germany of everything form light bulbs to scientists, and the victorious Red Army rapes and pillages the populace, the reader gets a full picture of the horror of losing . From the point to when the Allies reach the city and learn how to deal with the justifiably proud Russians and their lies, treachery, cruelty and intransigence, to when the roar of Allied aircraft in the Berlin skies , laden with life giving supplies , gave life and hope to Berliners, Checkmate in Berlin is totally absorbing, often tense and ultimately satisfying. Yes, there are statistics : the number of aircraft involved and their types; the number of missions; the tons of coal, pounds of food, doses of medicines. Mr Milton does not stint on footnotes and sources for his history, nor does he miss naming the important personages of those historic days. From Truman to Stalin , all the Generals and some of the almost forgotten quiet heroes and snarling Communist apparatchiks get their due, and the author does it without glazing the reader’s eyes.
Well written and researched it is a book for everyone who has an interest in a very good history.
I recommend it very highly
Note: I won a copy of Checkmate in Berlin from the author and publisher through Net Galley. My thanks to all.
Well written and researched it is a book for everyone who has an interest in a very good history.
I recommend it very highly
Note: I won a copy of Checkmate in Berlin from the author and publisher through Net Galley. My thanks to all.
October 18, 2021
Flies, flies, and more flies and they were all fat. The city had no cats, dogs, or birds. They had all been eaten by the starving inhabitants. Such was the way one British observer described the city upon entering Berlin. It was a scene straight out of Hieronymous Bosch with destruction on a massive scale, dead bodies everywhere, and anything that had survived ripped off, literally, by Soviet troops who had arrived first to cart everything east. Fanatical Nazis, following Hitler's final orders to destroy everything, had done their work well, too.
The Soviets were a problem from the beginning, never willing to compromise, and dismantling everything they could lay their hands on to be shipped back to Russia. There was conflict between Lucius Clay, the brilliant logistician who had never experienced combat, but who kept the troops supplied with what they needed, and Frank Hawley, general in charge of the American sector of Berlin who didn't trust the Russians. Clay knew they had to figure out a way to get along with the Soviets. He also realized the importance of resurrecting German industry rather than destroying it. It was the only way to keep people fed, not to mention it was important for U.S. industry as a consumer of U.S. goods.
The Russians were, then as now, masters of misinformation and sowing mistrust among the allies, deviously spreading lies about each other and other falsities. Those who were surprised by Russian manipulation of American social media during recent elections should not have been. They have many decades of experience. They revealed their distaste for fair play in one anecdote. All the allied leaders were invited to a boar hunt, an invitation that was accepted by all with pleasure. They were surprised when the Russians arrived with submachine guns instead of rifles. When the boars came out of the woods, the Russians opened up with a fusillade that had all everyone else hitting the ground to avoid bullets that were flying everywhere. When the shooting stopped a mass of dead boar lay in front of them having been slaughtered by the massive firepower. That was emblematic of Russian tactics.
That first winter was the coldest on record, and the suffering of Germans and refugees was terrible. Meanwhile, the winners were living in splendor and unimaginable comfort. They requisitioned beautiful mansions, had access to the riches of the PX, and had plenty of servants. The Black Market made many rich, and virtually anything could be had for a few cigarettes which had become the de facto currency. The disparity between the conquerors and the people was a worry to some as they feared that unless the allies could get German industry and society back on its feet that Communism, which on its face lacked the same disparities, would become more appealing. The Allies won a stunning election victory in the first election as the allies merely posted signs reminding Germans of the vicious reprisals taken by the Russians. But people can be fickle and tend to follow food rather than politics, so providing sustenance became a priority.
Ironies abound. The Soviets themselves should have realized how people can come together to survive sieges; they had their own Leningrad and Stalingrad examples before them. Had Stalin not unleashed the fury of Russian troops to wreck havoc on Berliners by Russian troops, they might have been far less fearful of Soviet domination. Traffic between East and West Berlin remained open during the airlift, which was instituted in 1948 ( a magnificent logistical feat) , the catch being that Westerners crossing the checkpoints had to register with the Soviet authorities thus placing them under Soviet control. So even though they could get food on the Eastern side, few people crossed to risk Soviet control. Electricity was a huge problem. 80% of electricity generators were in the Eastern sector, so that was severely rationed in the West. Since water had to be pumped from deep wells, it had to be rationed as well.
One high placed U.S. official remarked of the crisis, "One wrong foot now, and it's World War III." I could write a lot more. Loved this book.
The Soviets were a problem from the beginning, never willing to compromise, and dismantling everything they could lay their hands on to be shipped back to Russia. There was conflict between Lucius Clay, the brilliant logistician who had never experienced combat, but who kept the troops supplied with what they needed, and Frank Hawley, general in charge of the American sector of Berlin who didn't trust the Russians. Clay knew they had to figure out a way to get along with the Soviets. He also realized the importance of resurrecting German industry rather than destroying it. It was the only way to keep people fed, not to mention it was important for U.S. industry as a consumer of U.S. goods.
The Russians were, then as now, masters of misinformation and sowing mistrust among the allies, deviously spreading lies about each other and other falsities. Those who were surprised by Russian manipulation of American social media during recent elections should not have been. They have many decades of experience. They revealed their distaste for fair play in one anecdote. All the allied leaders were invited to a boar hunt, an invitation that was accepted by all with pleasure. They were surprised when the Russians arrived with submachine guns instead of rifles. When the boars came out of the woods, the Russians opened up with a fusillade that had all everyone else hitting the ground to avoid bullets that were flying everywhere. When the shooting stopped a mass of dead boar lay in front of them having been slaughtered by the massive firepower. That was emblematic of Russian tactics.
That first winter was the coldest on record, and the suffering of Germans and refugees was terrible. Meanwhile, the winners were living in splendor and unimaginable comfort. They requisitioned beautiful mansions, had access to the riches of the PX, and had plenty of servants. The Black Market made many rich, and virtually anything could be had for a few cigarettes which had become the de facto currency. The disparity between the conquerors and the people was a worry to some as they feared that unless the allies could get German industry and society back on its feet that Communism, which on its face lacked the same disparities, would become more appealing. The Allies won a stunning election victory in the first election as the allies merely posted signs reminding Germans of the vicious reprisals taken by the Russians. But people can be fickle and tend to follow food rather than politics, so providing sustenance became a priority.
Ironies abound. The Soviets themselves should have realized how people can come together to survive sieges; they had their own Leningrad and Stalingrad examples before them. Had Stalin not unleashed the fury of Russian troops to wreck havoc on Berliners by Russian troops, they might have been far less fearful of Soviet domination. Traffic between East and West Berlin remained open during the airlift, which was instituted in 1948 ( a magnificent logistical feat) , the catch being that Westerners crossing the checkpoints had to register with the Soviet authorities thus placing them under Soviet control. So even though they could get food on the Eastern side, few people crossed to risk Soviet control. Electricity was a huge problem. 80% of electricity generators were in the Eastern sector, so that was severely rationed in the West. Since water had to be pumped from deep wells, it had to be rationed as well.
One high placed U.S. official remarked of the crisis, "One wrong foot now, and it's World War III." I could write a lot more. Loved this book.
January 2, 2023
Checkmate in Berlin: The Cold War Showdown that Shaped the Modern World, Giles Milton, 2021, 377 pages, Dewey 943.155, ISBN 9781250247568
The story of postwar Berlin, told in a series of personal anecdotes. Easy to read.
The Soviet army fought and raped its way into Berlin, securing full control April 30, 1945. The American and British armies finally occupied their assigned sectors nine weeks later, July 4. The Soviet army had spent those nine weeks looting and destroying everything they could, and establishing Communist control of Berlin's civilian government, judiciary, and police. p. 85. The author gives us little explanation for the Western allies' delay.
From Stettin on the Baltic to Trieste on the Adriatic, an iron curtain has descended across Europe. --Winston Churchill, March 5, 1946 speech: https://winstonchurchill.org/resource... Map, Stettin to Trieste:
https://www.google.com/maps/dir/Stett...
Iron Curtain: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Iron_Cu...
The Russians admire strength, despise military weakness. p. 165. They must be confronted with total resolve. --George Kennan, Feb. 22, 1946 in his famous long telegram: https://nsarchive2.gwu.edu/coldwar/do... where he also tells us, "Russian rulers have invariably sensed that their rule was relatively archaic in form, fragile and artificial in its psychological foundation, unable to stand comparison or contact with political systems of Western countries." p. 167.
In occupied Berlin, natives starved and froze; the occupiers were fed and warm. "The social status of any German in our zone today, is on a level comparable to a negro in Mississippi." p. 208.
Despite the warnings of men who knew the Soviets, the Truman and Atlee governments continued ordering their forces to appease Stalin until he blockaded Berlin, June 24, 1948. p. 241. No food nor fuel could enter the city. There would be no electricity, no clean water, no working sewers. Stalin was trying to force the Western allies out. Berlin had been getting 13,500 tons of supplies daily by rail, including 6,000 tons of coal. Subsistence minimum was 4,500 tons, including 641 tons of flour, 150 of cereal, 106 of meat and fish, 900 of potatoes, 51 of sugar, 10 of coffee, 20 of milk, 32 of fats, 3 tons of yeast, 38 tons of salt. By spring 1949, the airlift was bringing in 8,000 tons a day. pp. 248, 262, 285, 287, 297. Berlin was 2.4 million people. p. 252.
The Western allies knew something the Soviets didn't: they knew where the gas mains and electric lines were, thanks to mayor Ernst Reuter's having smuggled them the prints. The allies tapped the mains and cables: eastern Berlin supplied some power to the west. p. 262.
Western Berlin established its own police force: 1100 officers came to the west side; 900 stayed on the east. p. 263.
Luftwaffe mechanics maintained the airlift planes. p. 270. A plane took off or landed every 90 seconds, round the clock, using 450 planes. For Easter Sunday 1949, they did something special: 13,000 tons on 1,400 flights in 24 hours. p. 269, 298.
Fog halted the airlift Nov. 3, 1948 to early January 1949. pp. 286-291.
For months as the Soviets blockaded Berlin, the West continued supplying the Soviets coal, iron, steel, machinery, chemicals, rubber, textiles, tools, and spare parts. Finally, the American commandant began a counter-blockade of the east. p. 295.
A Russian-speaking American spy learned that the Soviets were unprepared to use their military against the West. p. 296.
Stalin ended his siege, May 12, 1949. p. 301. The Western allies signed off on a West German constitution the same day. West Berlin was not part of West Germany. pp. 312-313.
The West won West Berlin. p. 301.
NATO was formed April 4, 1949: Belgium, Canada, Denmark, France, Iceland, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, the United Kingdom,and the United States, allying to counter Soviet aggression. p. 311. West Germany joined, 1955. p. 313. In response, the USSR formed the Warsaw Pact with Poland, Albania, Bulgaria, Czechoslovakia, East Germany, Hungary,and Romania. p. 314.
In 1961, East Germany walled off West Berlin, to prevent easterners escaping. p. 314.
You can successfully shout down your opponent only if your words are backed by overwhelming threat of force. They will use force only if they have a more-than-reasonable chance of succeeding. --Col. Frank Howley, commandant of Berlin's American sector, 1947-1949.
The story of postwar Berlin, told in a series of personal anecdotes. Easy to read.
The Soviet army fought and raped its way into Berlin, securing full control April 30, 1945. The American and British armies finally occupied their assigned sectors nine weeks later, July 4. The Soviet army had spent those nine weeks looting and destroying everything they could, and establishing Communist control of Berlin's civilian government, judiciary, and police. p. 85. The author gives us little explanation for the Western allies' delay.
From Stettin on the Baltic to Trieste on the Adriatic, an iron curtain has descended across Europe. --Winston Churchill, March 5, 1946 speech: https://winstonchurchill.org/resource... Map, Stettin to Trieste:
https://www.google.com/maps/dir/Stett...
Iron Curtain: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Iron_Cu...
The Russians admire strength, despise military weakness. p. 165. They must be confronted with total resolve. --George Kennan, Feb. 22, 1946 in his famous long telegram: https://nsarchive2.gwu.edu/coldwar/do... where he also tells us, "Russian rulers have invariably sensed that their rule was relatively archaic in form, fragile and artificial in its psychological foundation, unable to stand comparison or contact with political systems of Western countries." p. 167.
In occupied Berlin, natives starved and froze; the occupiers were fed and warm. "The social status of any German in our zone today, is on a level comparable to a negro in Mississippi." p. 208.
Despite the warnings of men who knew the Soviets, the Truman and Atlee governments continued ordering their forces to appease Stalin until he blockaded Berlin, June 24, 1948. p. 241. No food nor fuel could enter the city. There would be no electricity, no clean water, no working sewers. Stalin was trying to force the Western allies out. Berlin had been getting 13,500 tons of supplies daily by rail, including 6,000 tons of coal. Subsistence minimum was 4,500 tons, including 641 tons of flour, 150 of cereal, 106 of meat and fish, 900 of potatoes, 51 of sugar, 10 of coffee, 20 of milk, 32 of fats, 3 tons of yeast, 38 tons of salt. By spring 1949, the airlift was bringing in 8,000 tons a day. pp. 248, 262, 285, 287, 297. Berlin was 2.4 million people. p. 252.
The Western allies knew something the Soviets didn't: they knew where the gas mains and electric lines were, thanks to mayor Ernst Reuter's having smuggled them the prints. The allies tapped the mains and cables: eastern Berlin supplied some power to the west. p. 262.
Western Berlin established its own police force: 1100 officers came to the west side; 900 stayed on the east. p. 263.
Luftwaffe mechanics maintained the airlift planes. p. 270. A plane took off or landed every 90 seconds, round the clock, using 450 planes. For Easter Sunday 1949, they did something special: 13,000 tons on 1,400 flights in 24 hours. p. 269, 298.
Fog halted the airlift Nov. 3, 1948 to early January 1949. pp. 286-291.
For months as the Soviets blockaded Berlin, the West continued supplying the Soviets coal, iron, steel, machinery, chemicals, rubber, textiles, tools, and spare parts. Finally, the American commandant began a counter-blockade of the east. p. 295.
A Russian-speaking American spy learned that the Soviets were unprepared to use their military against the West. p. 296.
Stalin ended his siege, May 12, 1949. p. 301. The Western allies signed off on a West German constitution the same day. West Berlin was not part of West Germany. pp. 312-313.
The West won West Berlin. p. 301.
NATO was formed April 4, 1949: Belgium, Canada, Denmark, France, Iceland, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, the United Kingdom,and the United States, allying to counter Soviet aggression. p. 311. West Germany joined, 1955. p. 313. In response, the USSR formed the Warsaw Pact with Poland, Albania, Bulgaria, Czechoslovakia, East Germany, Hungary,and Romania. p. 314.
In 1961, East Germany walled off West Berlin, to prevent easterners escaping. p. 314.
You can successfully shout down your opponent only if your words are backed by overwhelming threat of force. They will use force only if they have a more-than-reasonable chance of succeeding. --Col. Frank Howley, commandant of Berlin's American sector, 1947-1949.
July 9, 2021
Checkmate in Berlin: The Cold War Showdown That Shaped the Modern World
by Giles Milton
Very few military historians, know how to deliver a factual account of events, without it reading like a text book. Max Hastings, Anthony Beevor and Giles Milton all know how to deliver books about historic events, that don't leave me wanting to yawn.
In Checkmate from Berlin, Milton tells the story of the race to seize Berlin in the aftermath of World War II that fired the starting gun for the Cold War, Milton, gives readers a glimpse into the cloak & dagger world of espionage and duplicity that followed. The books begins with the fall of Berlin as the Soviet army enters the capital and the Allies start to divide the spoils of war.
The Russian's were brutal in they're conquest, taking everything that wasn't bolted down,this included people, specifically scientists. They copied the Nazi's playbook and stole everything of value such as books, art, machines and even beds, back to Russia. This was all done under Stalin's orders and was a declaration to the allies that they weren't allies anymore now that the war was over. When the Allies eventually arrived in Berlin, they thought they would share Berlin. with the Russian's this so things escalated quickly.
Recommended read for anyone who loves history or just a cracking good read.
by Giles Milton
Very few military historians, know how to deliver a factual account of events, without it reading like a text book. Max Hastings, Anthony Beevor and Giles Milton all know how to deliver books about historic events, that don't leave me wanting to yawn.
In Checkmate from Berlin, Milton tells the story of the race to seize Berlin in the aftermath of World War II that fired the starting gun for the Cold War, Milton, gives readers a glimpse into the cloak & dagger world of espionage and duplicity that followed. The books begins with the fall of Berlin as the Soviet army enters the capital and the Allies start to divide the spoils of war.
The Russian's were brutal in they're conquest, taking everything that wasn't bolted down,this included people, specifically scientists. They copied the Nazi's playbook and stole everything of value such as books, art, machines and even beds, back to Russia. This was all done under Stalin's orders and was a declaration to the allies that they weren't allies anymore now that the war was over. When the Allies eventually arrived in Berlin, they thought they would share Berlin. with the Russian's this so things escalated quickly.
Recommended read for anyone who loves history or just a cracking good read.
April 5, 2023
A very interesting book
November 7, 2021
Milton takes a detailed look at the immediate post-war era in Berlin in this engaging and very well researched narrative history that covers the time between the arrival of US troops in Berlin in July 1945, after the Russians had spent the previous two months raping and looting their way through the devastated city, through the rising tensions and jostling for primacy between the suddenly not-so-allied-anymore four powers each administering a sector of Berlin, to the blockade of West Berlin and the massive effort that went into the airlift that eventually saved the city. He intersperses the stories of leading figures in command of the various sectors with those of ordinary people struggling to survive, putting side by side the voices of victors and vanquished, and examining the rivalries between the various military commanders that mirror on a small scale the escalating political struggle between their countries. A highly interesting read.
March 24, 2023
What a journey!
May 9, 2025
This was a very detailed and informative book about what went on in Berlin as it was occupied by first the Soviets, then also by the British, Americans and French at the end of WWII. Although I have read many books on WWII, there was much in this book that was new to me, or that I had only a superficial knowledge of before.
The book, illustrated with quotes from Berliners’ diaries, reveals the fears, hunger and hopes of the citizens of Berlin. The political situation, and the relationships between the occupying powers is explained – both with the actions and intentions of the top leaders (Churchill, Stalin, Roosevelt and Truman), and also those of the next couple of levels down.
Starting with the division of areas of influence by the Allies at the Yalta conference prior to the German surrender, and ending with the end of the Berlin Air Lift, the splitting of Germany and Berlin into East and West, and the formation of NATO, so much went on, that tended to be forgotten outside of Berlin, as people celebrated the end of the war and did not want to dwell on further ‘irritations’ between erstwhile allies.
You might think that the Germans did not deserve any sympathy once the war was over, but the situation that the Americans and British encountered on arriving in Berlin was dire. There was little to no food, most of the infrastructure in the non-Soviet zone had been dismantled and shipped to Russia, looting was rife, and raping of girls and women was not discouraged. Berliners were terrified, starving and frozen. The Soviets were determined to impose communism on their areas of influence at any cost, and most of the other allies were taking great care not to start WWIII. WWII might have ended, but the Cold War was rapidly beginning.
I listened to this book, and it was very well narrated by the author. I never felt lost – as can often happen with non-fiction audio books. The audio came with a pdf of photographs, names of main characters, and a full bibliography of references used.
I highly recommend this book to anyone interested in history, and plan on buying a hard copy of the book for future reference.
The book, illustrated with quotes from Berliners’ diaries, reveals the fears, hunger and hopes of the citizens of Berlin. The political situation, and the relationships between the occupying powers is explained – both with the actions and intentions of the top leaders (Churchill, Stalin, Roosevelt and Truman), and also those of the next couple of levels down.
Starting with the division of areas of influence by the Allies at the Yalta conference prior to the German surrender, and ending with the end of the Berlin Air Lift, the splitting of Germany and Berlin into East and West, and the formation of NATO, so much went on, that tended to be forgotten outside of Berlin, as people celebrated the end of the war and did not want to dwell on further ‘irritations’ between erstwhile allies.
You might think that the Germans did not deserve any sympathy once the war was over, but the situation that the Americans and British encountered on arriving in Berlin was dire. There was little to no food, most of the infrastructure in the non-Soviet zone had been dismantled and shipped to Russia, looting was rife, and raping of girls and women was not discouraged. Berliners were terrified, starving and frozen. The Soviets were determined to impose communism on their areas of influence at any cost, and most of the other allies were taking great care not to start WWIII. WWII might have ended, but the Cold War was rapidly beginning.
I listened to this book, and it was very well narrated by the author. I never felt lost – as can often happen with non-fiction audio books. The audio came with a pdf of photographs, names of main characters, and a full bibliography of references used.
I highly recommend this book to anyone interested in history, and plan on buying a hard copy of the book for future reference.
January 6, 2025
First book of 2024, and I really enjoyed it. There is hardly anything new for those on top of their early Cold War history, particularly the Berlin Airlift. But I really enjoy the 'slice of life' profiles of individuals both in control of the circumstances and those experiencing it first hand.
October 3, 2022
Berlin 1945-9, the Airlift and how and why the city ended up with a big wall down the middle. I had always wondered what set of circumstances could have created this bizarre situation, and the author provides this through documents and first hand accounts. The views are all personal, putting the reader directly into the confusion/danger/corruption/resolution. I loved it
July 26, 2024
I couldn’t put this book down. If you want to understand what caused the Cold War ten this is the book for you.
August 15, 2021
I found this book very disappointing, especially after reading so many rave reviews. The main characters are never fully developed. The military and political leaders are all rather one-dimensional and seem like stock figures from Hollywood rather than the complex personalities they undoubtedly were. The interesting vignettes of local families' hardships are few and far between, and also incompletely developed. The quotes from the journalist Ruth Andreas-Friedrich are thrown in here and there as if for a term paper requiring primary sources. On the positive side: interesting photographs are included, and I was introduced to some important historical figures such as Ernest Bevin, the British foreign secretary and Ernst Reuter, mayor of Berlin's western sector.
July 6, 2023
Mr. Milton has done a fine job of bringing out the little known on the ground details and players in the drama of newly occupied Berlin. The rape, privation, and destitution caused by Nazi Germany. It is hard to feel pity for Nazi Germany, but individuals who have been raped, starved and beaten should be treated with compassion. Mr. Milton brings that tragedy to light while also contrasting the systems that occupied Berlin. One of punishment and revenge and one of punishment and possible redemption.
December 29, 2021
A fascinating insight into the tensions in post war Berlin that lead to the cold war. This book detailed major events and key players during this crucial time. It brought the characters alive in a way that was informative and engaging. I thoroughly recommend it for anyone who is interested in this time period.
July 16, 2021
What a cracking book!
Another period of history I fell asleep to, as a teenager in History class. I mean, yeah, I knew the basic rudimentary facts. Especially as I have been trying over recent years to find out more about the Nazis and the Second World War. That, and having visited the country a couple of times now and loving it.
Not great as a 44 year old. But hey, I'm trying.
Berlin is somewhere I have visited recently and plan to again in a few months (fingers crossed) because it is a very unique European city. In that, not only did they experience (in a very short period of time) all that lovely Nazi stuff upon its peoples. But not long after, what should have been a resurrection and rehabilitation for the German people, continued to be a similar (but very different) nightmare scenario.
CHECKMATE IN BERLIN is a very well researched account of the 'post-last-minute-panic-Hitler-bunker-orgy' period and into the occupation of the city to four very different nations in a very small space. I mean, what could possibly go wrong?
Milton follows the stories of the very enigmatic and duly flawed people on the ground who not only decided who got what, whether it be plunder or bodies to rape, but also what was to become of the city in the future. And unsurprisingly, the Russians come off pretty badly in this book.
I can't imagine though. Picture yourself in this D-Day euphoria and finally being rid of an oppressive regime, crawling out of your bunker and celebrating liberation, only to discover that said saviors were going to continue to starve you, steal everything and violate your women.
It was a necessary carbunkle that had its flaws, yes. Maybe things could have been done differently, absolutely. Could certain red flag waving-individuals conducted themselves more gentlemanly and less like animals, absolutely. But all is certainly not fair in love and war. How about... stop getting into them?
It was a period of tremendous bravery and flying by the seat of your pants and trying to work out what seem like impossible problems, that unfortunately affected the country and the continent for decades yet to come. But the other option would have been a lot worse, with hindsight.
But I only say that as a fortunate outside observer. Because the stories in this book are horrific and incredibly tragic. But the author still treats everything with the dignity and respect that it deserves and the victims, sadly did not receive.
Aside from the horror, I really enjoyed this book and it is a great pre-cursor for my next fascinating trip to this incredible city.
Another period of history I fell asleep to, as a teenager in History class. I mean, yeah, I knew the basic rudimentary facts. Especially as I have been trying over recent years to find out more about the Nazis and the Second World War. That, and having visited the country a couple of times now and loving it.
Not great as a 44 year old. But hey, I'm trying.
Berlin is somewhere I have visited recently and plan to again in a few months (fingers crossed) because it is a very unique European city. In that, not only did they experience (in a very short period of time) all that lovely Nazi stuff upon its peoples. But not long after, what should have been a resurrection and rehabilitation for the German people, continued to be a similar (but very different) nightmare scenario.
CHECKMATE IN BERLIN is a very well researched account of the 'post-last-minute-panic-Hitler-bunker-orgy' period and into the occupation of the city to four very different nations in a very small space. I mean, what could possibly go wrong?
Milton follows the stories of the very enigmatic and duly flawed people on the ground who not only decided who got what, whether it be plunder or bodies to rape, but also what was to become of the city in the future. And unsurprisingly, the Russians come off pretty badly in this book.
I can't imagine though. Picture yourself in this D-Day euphoria and finally being rid of an oppressive regime, crawling out of your bunker and celebrating liberation, only to discover that said saviors were going to continue to starve you, steal everything and violate your women.
It was a necessary carbunkle that had its flaws, yes. Maybe things could have been done differently, absolutely. Could certain red flag waving-individuals conducted themselves more gentlemanly and less like animals, absolutely. But all is certainly not fair in love and war. How about... stop getting into them?
It was a period of tremendous bravery and flying by the seat of your pants and trying to work out what seem like impossible problems, that unfortunately affected the country and the continent for decades yet to come. But the other option would have been a lot worse, with hindsight.
But I only say that as a fortunate outside observer. Because the stories in this book are horrific and incredibly tragic. But the author still treats everything with the dignity and respect that it deserves and the victims, sadly did not receive.
Aside from the horror, I really enjoyed this book and it is a great pre-cursor for my next fascinating trip to this incredible city.
August 21, 2021
Checkmate in Berlin: The Cold War Showdown That Shaped the Modern World
by Giles Milton
Very few military historians, know how to deliver a factual account of events, without it reading like a text book. Max Hastings, Anthony Beevor and Giles Milton all know how to deliver books about historic events, that don't leave me wanting to yawn.
In Checkmate from Berlin, Milton tells the story of the race to seize Berlin in the aftermath of World War II that fired the starting gun for the Cold War, Milton, gives readers a glimpse into the cloak & dagger world of espionage and duplicity that followed. The books begins with the fall of Berlin as the Soviet army enters the capital and the Allies start to divide the spoils of war.
The Russian's were brutal in they're conquest, taking everything that wasn't bolted down,this included people, specifically scientists. They copied the Nazi's playbook and stole everything of value such as books, art, machines and even beds, back to Russia. This was all done under Stalin's orders and was a declaration to the allies that they weren't allies anymore now that the war was over. When the Allies eventually arrived in Berlin, they thought they would share Berlin. with the Russian's this so things escalated quickly.
Recommended read for anyone who loves history or just a cracking good read.
by Giles Milton
Very few military historians, know how to deliver a factual account of events, without it reading like a text book. Max Hastings, Anthony Beevor and Giles Milton all know how to deliver books about historic events, that don't leave me wanting to yawn.
In Checkmate from Berlin, Milton tells the story of the race to seize Berlin in the aftermath of World War II that fired the starting gun for the Cold War, Milton, gives readers a glimpse into the cloak & dagger world of espionage and duplicity that followed. The books begins with the fall of Berlin as the Soviet army enters the capital and the Allies start to divide the spoils of war.
The Russian's were brutal in they're conquest, taking everything that wasn't bolted down,this included people, specifically scientists. They copied the Nazi's playbook and stole everything of value such as books, art, machines and even beds, back to Russia. This was all done under Stalin's orders and was a declaration to the allies that they weren't allies anymore now that the war was over. When the Allies eventually arrived in Berlin, they thought they would share Berlin. with the Russian's this so things escalated quickly.
Recommended read for anyone who loves history or just a cracking good read.
December 19, 2022
This book, like no other I’ve read, stands as a warning against the horrors and brutality of an ideologically driven government driving that ideology through and over humanity regardless of the death and suffering it causes. Infact it’s a warning against any ideology that wishes to force its opinions on others and is willing to destroy our “cancel” those who stand against it.
Huzzah Mr Milton, this book was fantastic! A great history to read and learn from, and to NEVER forget.
Huzzah Mr Milton, this book was fantastic! A great history to read and learn from, and to NEVER forget.
November 9, 2021
I found this book quite interesting. Even though I have read a lot about WWII, and of course knew of the Berlin Blockade, I had never read the details. The author gives a great summary of the run up to, and the Weatern Allies response and eventual triumph, in combating and eventually lifting the blockade. Really enjoyable.
March 16, 2022
Excellent historical summary of the post WWII creation of a divided Berlin and, ultimately, a divided world view of "West versus East". Especially insightful considering current actions by Russia in its region. The attitudes and actions of Soviet leaders behind Stalin in 1945 are little different than those apparent with Putin's Russia of 2022.
October 7, 2025
Giles Milton has mastered this space- popular history that informs, entertains, and provides numerous opportunities for further exploration. His closing section on the founding of NATO is especially relevant to our times.
July 11, 2021
"Checkmate in Berlin" may be the best history book I have ever read and I have read a lot of history. It reads like a Le Carre novel. It begins with the race by the Allies to seize Berlin and continues with the diplomatic battles (and the entirely undiplomatic battles) between between General Alexander Kotikovr, leader of the Soviet Sector and Colonel Frank Howley, leader of the American Sector. Milton's description of the siege of the city by the Soviets and the subsequent airlift by the West is white-knuckle breathtaking. If you enjoy reading history, diplomacy or spine tingling thrillers, this is the book for you. I offer my highest recommendation. I received this ARC edition as a first-reads winner and have ordered Milton's previous book, "Soldier, Sailor, Frogman, Spy".
October 8, 2021
Well-written! Exciting. Not too hard to keep the characters separated. I learned that the Cold War was truly a war.
March 26, 2022
A superb book about Berlin in the immediate aftermath of WWII. I had a vague idea about what happened, but I had no idea that a mini-WWIII was played out during those four years. Very highly recommended.
April 9, 2022
Outstanding! The Berlin Airlift was always something I understood to be an event that has forever served as a symbol of victory over Soviet tyranny. But this book truly brought to life for me the issues leading up to it, the characters on all sides who played a critical role, and the heroism that resulted in victory for the west.
December 7, 2023
A thoroughly entertaining history of Berlin in the years just after The Second World War.
January 27, 2022
Ως αγώνα σκακιού με σκακιέρα την πόλη του Βερολίνου παρουσιάζει ο γνωστός Βρετανός ιστορικός Τζάιλς Μίλτον τις απαρχές της ψυχροπολεμικής αντιπαράθεσης η οποία διαμόρφωσε τον σύγχρονο κόσμο μας και επέδρασε καταλυτικά στα περισσότερα γεγονότα του 20ου αιώνα.
Η πρωτεύουσα της Γερμανίας υπήρξε το κατεξοχήν πεδίο της αντιπαράθεσης, ήδη πριν από το τέλος του Δευτέρου Παγκοσμίου Πολέμου, μεταξύ των κομμουνιστών Σοβιετικών και των καπιταλιστικών Δυτικών Συμμάχων. Η διαίρεση της ερειπωμένης πόλης του Βερολίνου και οι εκεί αντιπαραθέσεις μεταξύ των υποτιθέμενων “Συμμάχων”, οι οποίοι έτρεφαν στην πραγματικότητα αισθήματα λυκοφιλίας ο ένας για τον άλλον, υπήρξε το πρώτο γεγονός του ιδιότυπου αυτού πολέμου δίχως αληθινά πυρά, που έμελε να ονομαστεί Ψυχρός Πόλεμος.
ΔΙΑΒΑΣΤΕ ΕΠΙΣΗΣ
Ιστορικό Αστυνομικό μυθιστόρημα από την βραβευμένη Mπεν Πάστορ
Ποιος θα σκεφτόταν να συνδυάσει μυθιστορηματικά τη ζωή στη ναζιστική Γερμανία με τη ζωή σε ένα τσίρκο;
Οι ρίζες της αντιπαράθεσης ανιχνεύονται, φυσικά, καταμεσίς του πολέμου, ο αγώνας, ωστόσο, για τη μεταπολεμική κυριαρχία στο Βερολίνο μεταξύ των Σοβιετικών και των Αγλλοαμερικανών ήταν εκείνος που όξυνε την αντιπαράθεση.
Ο Μίλτον, γνωστός στο ελληνικό κοινό από το αριστούργημά του “Χαμένος Παράδεισος“, το βιβλίο που αναφέρεται στην καταστροφή της Σμύρνης, δεν επιχειρεί εδώ να προβεί σε μία πλήρη ιστοριογράφηση ολόκληρης της ιστορίας του Ψυχρού Πολέμου, αλλά εστιάζει μονάχα στις απαρχές του και στις “μάχες” που έλαβαν χώρα στην πόλη του Βερολίνου, όπως υποδηλώνει, εξάλλου, και ο τίτλος του πονήματος “Ρουά ματ στο Βερολίνο“.
Αρχικά, ο Μίλτον περιγράφει εναργώς την εικόνα του μεταπολεμικού Βερολίνου, μίας πόλης ερειπίων, στην οποία οι Βερολινέζοι έδιναν καθημερινά μάχη για επιβίωση, αφού τρόφιμα δεν υπήρχαν και οι δομές της πόλης- ύδρευση, άρδευση, γκάζι και ηλεκτρικό-είχαν καταρρεύσει εντελώς λόγω των σφοδρών βομβαρδισμών και της Μάχης του Βερολίνου.
Εκτός από τα παραπάνω, στα δεινά των Βερολινέζων ήρθε να προστεθεί και η φρικτή λεηλασία και οι βιασμοί, τους οποίους υπέστησαν κυρίως από τους Ρώσους κατακτητές και ήταν τα φυσικά επακόλουθα της κατάληψης της πόλης από τις δυνάμεις κατοχής των Συμμάχων.
Οι δυσκολίες της ζωής στην κατεστραμμένη πόλη αποτυπώνονται εναργώς στο βιβλίο του Μίλτον, με την περιγραφή πολλών λεπτομερειών που αφορούν την καθημερινή ζωή, όπως και η αντίθεση στις συνθήκες διαβίωσης μεταξύ των δυνάμεων Κατοχής και του ντόπιου πληθυσμού και των Γερμανών προσφύγων που είχαν συρρεύσει από τα ανατολικά.
Εν συνεχεία, ο Μίλτον μας συστήνει τους βασικούς παίκτες της σκακιστικής αντιπαράθεσης του Βερολίνου: τον Αμερικανό, τον Βρετανό, τον Γάλλο και τον Σοβιετικό διοικητή της πόλης, τον αρχηγό, δηλαδή, του καθενός από τους τέσσερις τομείς στους οποίους είχε διαιρεθεί η πόλη από τους νικητές. Οι αντιπαραθέσεις αυτές αποτελούν και το μεγαλύτερο μέρος του βιβλίου, αφού πρώτα όμως ο Μίλτον μας περιγράψει ενδελεχώς την προσωπικότητα του καθενός από τους τέσσερις διοικητές.
Ο Μίλτον αναφέρεται επίσης στον διάσημο λόγο του Τσώρτσιλ στο Φούλτον του Μιζούρι. Εκεί, στις 15 Φεβρουαρίου του 1945 ο τέως Βρετανός πρωθυπουργός χρησιμοποίησε για πρώτη φορά τον όρο “Σιδηρούν παραπέτασμα”, αλλά και στη διάσημη Διάσκεψη του Πότσνταμ, η οποία έλαβε χώρα στα περίχωρα της κατεστραμμένης πόλης.
Τέλος, αναφέρεται διεξοδικά στην “πολιορκία” του Βερολίνου από τους Σοβιετικούς, τότε που οι Ρώσοι αποφάσισαν δηλαδή να αποκόψουν τον ανεφοδιασμό της πόλης και στη δημιουργία της περίφημης αερογέφυρας από τους Δυτικούς Συμμάχους, η οποία περιλάμβανε αποστολές τροφίμων και ειδών πρώτης ανάγκης στους Βερολινέζους με αερομεταφορά. Ήταν δε τελικά αυτή η οποία έσωσε εν τέλει την λιμοκτονούσα πόλη.
Ο Μίλτον διαθέτει το χάρισμα να συγγράφει την Ιστορία σαν μυθιστόρημα. Το βιβλίο αυτό, επομένως, με την εκλαϊκευμένη ιστορική αφήγηση δεν απευθύνεται μονάχα στους ιστορικούς, αλλά, απεναντίας, σε όλους τους αναγνώστες που θέλουν να γνωρίσουν καλύτερα τις απαρχές του πολέμου που σημάδεψε τον εικοστό αιώνα και του οποίου πολλές συνέπειες είναι ορατές μέχρι και σήμερα. Το ένθετο στη μέση του βιβλίου με εικόνες του Βερολίνου και των ηγετών της εποχής παρουσιάζει επίσης μεγάλο ενδιαφέρον και αναδεικνύει ιδανικά τα περιγραφόμενα γεγονότα.
Αναδημοσίευση από το Literature
Η πρωτεύουσα της Γερμανίας υπήρξε το κατεξοχήν πεδίο της αντιπαράθεσης, ήδη πριν από το τέλος του Δευτέρου Παγκοσμίου Πολέμου, μεταξύ των κομμουνιστών Σοβιετικών και των καπιταλιστικών Δυτικών Συμμάχων. Η διαίρεση της ερειπωμένης πόλης του Βερολίνου και οι εκεί αντιπαραθέσεις μεταξύ των υποτιθέμενων “Συμμάχων”, οι οποίοι έτρεφαν στην πραγματικότητα αισθήματα λυκοφιλίας ο ένας για τον άλλον, υπήρξε το πρώτο γεγονός του ιδιότυπου αυτού πολέμου δίχως αληθινά πυρά, που έμελε να ονομαστεί Ψυχρός Πόλεμος.
ΔΙΑΒΑΣΤΕ ΕΠΙΣΗΣ
Ιστορικό Αστυνομικό μυθιστόρημα από την βραβευμένη Mπεν Πάστορ
Ποιος θα σκεφτόταν να συνδυάσει μυθιστορηματικά τη ζωή στη ναζιστική Γερμανία με τη ζωή σε ένα τσίρκο;
Οι ρίζες της αντιπαράθεσης ανιχνεύονται, φυσικά, καταμεσίς του πολέμου, ο αγώνας, ωστόσο, για τη μεταπολεμική κυριαρχία στο Βερολίνο μεταξύ των Σοβιετικών και των Αγλλοαμερικανών ήταν εκείνος που όξυνε την αντιπαράθεση.
Ο Μίλτον, γνωστός στο ελληνικό κοινό από το αριστούργημά του “Χαμένος Παράδεισος“, το βιβλίο που αναφέρεται στην καταστροφή της Σμύρνης, δεν επιχειρεί εδώ να προβεί σε μία πλήρη ιστοριογράφηση ολόκληρης της ιστορίας του Ψυχρού Πολέμου, αλλά εστιάζει μονάχα στις απαρχές του και στις “μάχες” που έλαβαν χώρα στην πόλη του Βερολίνου, όπως υποδηλώνει, εξάλλου, και ο τίτλος του πονήματος “Ρουά ματ στο Βερολίνο“.
Αρχικά, ο Μίλτον περιγράφει εναργώς την εικόνα του μεταπολεμικού Βερολίνου, μίας πόλης ερειπίων, στην οποία οι Βερολινέζοι έδιναν καθημερινά μάχη για επιβίωση, αφού τρόφιμα δεν υπήρχαν και οι δομές της πόλης- ύδρευση, άρδευση, γκάζι και ηλεκτρικό-είχαν καταρρεύσει εντελώς λόγω των σφοδρών βομβαρδισμών και της Μάχης του Βερολίνου.
Εκτός από τα παραπάνω, στα δεινά των Βερολινέζων ήρθε να προστεθεί και η φρικτή λεηλασία και οι βιασμοί, τους οποίους υπέστησαν κυρίως από τους Ρώσους κατακτητές και ήταν τα φυσικά επακόλουθα της κατάληψης της πόλης από τις δυνάμεις κατοχής των Συμμάχων.
Οι δυσκολίες της ζωής στην κατεστραμμένη πόλη αποτυπώνονται εναργώς στο βιβλίο του Μίλτον, με την περιγραφή πολλών λεπτομερειών που αφορούν την καθημερινή ζωή, όπως και η αντίθεση στις συνθήκες διαβίωσης μεταξύ των δυνάμεων Κατοχής και του ντόπιου πληθυσμού και των Γερμανών προσφύγων που είχαν συρρεύσει από τα ανατολικά.
Εν συνεχεία, ο Μίλτον μας συστήνει τους βασικούς παίκτες της σκακιστικής αντιπαράθεσης του Βερολίνου: τον Αμερικανό, τον Βρετανό, τον Γάλλο και τον Σοβιετικό διοικητή της πόλης, τον αρχηγό, δηλαδή, του καθενός από τους τέσσερις τομείς στους οποίους είχε διαιρεθεί η πόλη από τους νικητές. Οι αντιπαραθέσεις αυτές αποτελούν και το μεγαλύτερο μέρος του βιβλίου, αφού πρώτα όμως ο Μίλτον μας περιγράψει ενδελεχώς την προσωπικότητα του καθενός από τους τέσσερις διοικητές.
Ο Μίλτον αναφέρεται επίσης στον διάσημο λόγο του Τσώρτσιλ στο Φούλτον του Μιζούρι. Εκεί, στις 15 Φεβρουαρίου του 1945 ο τέως Βρετανός πρωθυπουργός χρησιμοποίησε για πρώτη φορά τον όρο “Σιδηρούν παραπέτασμα”, αλλά και στη διάσημη Διάσκεψη του Πότσνταμ, η οποία έλαβε χώρα στα περίχωρα της κατεστραμμένης πόλης.
Τέλος, αναφέρεται διεξοδικά στην “πολιορκία” του Βερολίνου από τους Σοβιετικούς, τότε που οι Ρώσοι αποφάσισαν δηλαδή να αποκόψουν τον ανεφοδιασμό της πόλης και στη δημιουργία της περίφημης αερογέφυρας από τους Δυτικούς Συμμάχους, η οποία περιλάμβανε αποστολές τροφίμων και ειδών πρώτης ανάγκης στους Βερολινέζους με αερομεταφορά. Ήταν δε τελικά αυτή η οποία έσωσε εν τέλει την λιμοκτονούσα πόλη.
Ο Μίλτον διαθέτει το χάρισμα να συγγράφει την Ιστορία σαν μυθιστόρημα. Το βιβλίο αυτό, επομένως, με την εκλαϊκευμένη ιστορική αφήγηση δεν απευθύνεται μονάχα στους ιστορικούς, αλλά, απεναντίας, σε όλους τους αναγνώστες που θέλουν να γνωρίσουν καλύτερα τις απαρχές του πολέμου που σημάδεψε τον εικοστό αιώνα και του οποίου πολλές συνέπειες είναι ορατές μέχρι και σήμερα. Το ένθετο στη μέση του βιβλίου με εικόνες του Βερολίνου και των ηγετών της εποχής παρουσιάζει επίσης μεγάλο ενδιαφέρον και αναδεικνύει ιδανικά τα περιγραφόμενα γεγονότα.
Αναδημοσίευση από το Literature
September 20, 2025
Very interesting to know what all happened between Russia, Britain, USA, and France after fall of Berlin in second world war to manage Berlin and German Territory which shaped the post war geographical boundaries and alliances giving birth to NATO and Warsaw Pact and also the era of Cold War. The story of the rise of Berlin wall.
A nice book for those who have interest in history..
A nice book for those who have interest in history..
Displaying 1 - 30 of 199 reviews