Puts into context the unsuccessful socialist experiment in Eastern Europe. The first half concentrates on the years 1945-56, when the options for Eastern Europe were not entirely closed. The second half discusses the economic failure of what was termed actually existing socialism. An established introductory textbook that provides students with an engaging overview of the complex developments in Eastern Europe from the end of the Second World War through to the present. Tracing the origins of the socialist experiment, de-Stalinisation, and the transition from socialism to capitalism, it explores the key events in each nation's recent history.

This is an ideal core text for dedicated modules on Eastern European History or Europe since 1945 (including Central Europe and the Balkans) - or a supplementary text for broader modules on Modern European History or European Political History - which may be offered at all levels of an undergraduate history, politics or European studies degree. In addition it is a crucial resource for students who may be studying the recent history of Eastern Europe for the first time as part of a taught postgraduate degree in Modern European history, European politics or European studies.

New to this Edition:
- A fully revised new edition of an established text, updated throughout to incorporate the latest research
- Provides coverage of recent events
- Offers increased focus on social and cultural history with greater emphasis on everyday life and experiences in Eastern Europe