Territorial Revisionism and the Allies of Germany in the Second World War

Brief Summary

Territorial Revisionism and the Allies of Germany in the Second World War by Marina Cattaruzza examines the intricate alliances formed around Nazi Germany prior to and during World War II. The book delves into the concept of "territorial revisionism," which refers to the political and military endeavors aimed at altering national borders. Central to this volume is the interplay of territorial ambitions between Germany and the states allied with it, as well as the motivations behind the actions of these nationalizing ethnocratic ruling elites. By doing so, Cattaruzza offers an alternative perspective to traditional German and East European narratives of the war.

Main Themes and Topics

The book focuses on the alliances that congregated around Germany and the territorial ambitions that fueled these collaborations. A significant theme is the pursuit of border changes, known as "territorial revisionism," which became a pivotal aspect of the political and military strategies during that era. Cattaruzza reevaluates the roles of interethnic relations and examines the motivations of states led by nationalist regimes in East Central Europe. This comprehensive analysis helps provide a nuanced understanding of World War II, challenging conventional German-centric and national historiographies of the involved Eastern European states.

Writing Style and Tone

Marina Cattaruzza employs an academic and analytical writing style, rich in detail and rooted in historical research. The tone is objective and scholarly, presenting complex historical interactions with clarity. By prioritizing a methodical approach, the book succeeds in providing a well-rounded understanding of territorial and political dynamics during the era. The inclusion of diverse perspectives, especially those of lesser-heard Eastern European states, enriches the narrative and provides depth to the historical discourse.

Criticism

While Cattaruzza's work is rigorous in its research, it may challenge readers who lack a background in European history, due to its dense academic prose and the complex interplay of events it covers. Some readers might find the focus on territorial revisionism overly specialized, wishing for a broader context on the personal or cultural impacts of these political decisions. However, these aspects are a testament to the book's commitment to a detailed and scholarly examination of historical themes.