Hitler's Nordic Ally?
by Claes Johansen
"Finland and the Total War 1939 - 1945"
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Hitler's Nordic Ally? by Claes Johansen
Details
War:
World War II
Perspective:
Researcher
True Story:
Yes
Biography:
No
Region:
Europe
Page Count:
493
Published Date:
2016
ISBN13:
9781473853157
Description
Main Themes and Topics
Hitler's Nordic Ally? by Claes Johansen explores Finland's unique and complex role in World War II, highlighting its strategic alliance with Nazi Germany. One of the main themes of the book is Finland's military effectiveness despite being a small nation with limited resources. Johansen delves into the Winter War of 1939-40, where Finland managed to hold off the Soviet Red Army against overwhelming odds. The book further examines the continuation of Finnish involvement in the war alongside Germany against the Soviet Union, followed by Finland's eventual conflict with Germany in the Lapland War.
This work aims to fill the gaps in the commonly held narratives about Finland's WWII experience, which often focus solely on the Winter War, by providing an extensive overview of Finland's involvement throughout the war. The book also analyzes the impact of war on Finnish society, addressing military, political, diplomatic, and civilian aspects.
Writing Style and Tone
Claes Johansen adopts an informative and engaging writing style, effectively communicating complex historical events in a manner accessible to a broad audience. His tone is analytical yet approachable, making intricate military strategies and diplomatic maneuvers understandable to non-experts. Johansen's use of a narrative approach helps to interweave detailed historical facts with the broader context of World War II, maintaining the reader's interest throughout.
Brief Summary
Hitler's Nordic Ally? offers a detailed account of Finland's participation in World War II, beginning with their tenacious defense in the Winter War against the Soviet Union. It then chronicles Finland's strategic, albeit uneasy, partnership with Nazi Germany and its military engagements on the Eastern Front. Johansen further explores Finland's transition from fighting alongside Germany to battling German forces in the Lapland War toward the end of WWII. This book provides insights into how Finland navigated the complex geopolitical landscape of the time while maintaining its democratic values, all set against the backdrop of total war.
