Nations in Transition
9 total works
Ukraine, Second Edition traces the political, economic, and cultural history of this vibrant country, detailing recent changes and bringing coverage fully up to date. This compelling reference provides completely current information, including results from recent elections. Also included are profiles on contemporary leaders, statistics and information regarding the country's economic and political status, and a discussion of present and future problems.
Bulgaria, Second Edition portrays the rich, historic past of Bulgaria. From the country's beautiful architecture to its distinct national character, this updated edition details important political and social leaders, relationships with diverse minority groups, and the country's history as well as its present concerns. Bringing readers up to date on new developments in the country and highlighting currents in politics and culture, this reference remains a solid addition to public and personal collections.
Chronicling the history of the Republic, thi s book focuses on historical conflicts between the Czech and Slovak peoples, then explores daily life, politics and the challenges faced by the country today. '
First as the powerful bulwark of Christendom against the East in the Middle Ages and the Renaissance, and then as the victim of rapacious neighbours, Poland's fate has been central to European culture. Her turbulent history has left a wealth of monuments and historic landscapes that have been virtually hidden from the rest of the world. This guide explores Poland's remarkable heritage in full, with comprehensive coverage of art and architecture, and with introductions to the more recent contributions in film, music and theatre. The contents of this second, revised edition include introductions to Poland's history and culture, detailed tours and practical information.
Presents a history of Russia within the former Soviet Union, as well as its current status as the Russian Federation, describing the challenges brought by its new independence.
Posed on the eastern edge of Russia, the Baltic republics of Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania are among the smallest republics of the 15 countries of the former Soviet Union. Collectively, however, they are the greatest success story of these once satellite states. They were the first Soviet states to break away and have achieved a successful transition from communism to democracy. The Baltic Republics begins with a detailed introduction to the common geography and history of the Baltic republics, followed by sections that explore the history, government, economy, culture, daily life, and cities of each individual nation. Providing a general assessment of the present problems and future solutions of the three Baltic republics this volume introduces readers to various aspects of life in these areas. The author emphasizes the success of these countries in the post-Soviet era and provides a broad historical overview that shows recent events in context. Accessible and up to date, The Baltic Republics is an ideal starting point for students researching the area.
Introduces the people, politics, and daily life of Romania, and examines its transition from a country ruled by communism, detailing its attempts to alleviate poverty and social unrest, and build new institutions.
Since this original edition was published, reform leader Lech Walesa and the Solidarity movement have all but disappeared from the political scene in Poland. In 1995 elections, former Communist Atexsander Kwasniewski won the presidency and was easily reelected in 2000. President Kwasniewski supervised the adoption of a new constitution in May 1997, Poland's entry into NATO in March 1999, and its successful application for membership in the European Union, to take effect in 2004. Poland, Second Edition takes a close look at these and other recent events to provide a comprehensive, current overview of Poland. For this edition, the author has made significant updates and revisions to the original volume. Current events have been added in detail and the chronology and reading list have been brought up to date. A new preface, index, and new photographs have been added as well, making this a key resource for students and general readers who want to know more about one of the United States's closest allies.