This new Companion provides a wealth of information on the history of Germany since the Second World War including much material which is not readily available. Throughout, equal attention is devoted to East and West Germany and covers political, social, cultural, and economic developments. The author provides information on, for example, political parties and office-holders; living standards, crime and the environment; Germany's relationship with the European Union; and East Germany up to 1990. Attention is also devoted to topical issues such as opposition and dissent in the East, terrorism, neo-nazism and racial violence. An essential reference book for anyone studying, or teaching, postwar Germany in history or politics departments.

The countries of Central and Eastern Europe have had their political, economic and geographical boundaries drawn and re-drawn at key moments throughout the twentieth century. This topical new guide to the region gives a comprehensive picture of the major historical developments since the signing of the Treaty of Versailles, and charts the transformations and upheavals of recent years. It pays particular attention to the early nationalist and then fascist, communist and new nationalist periods, highlighting similarities and differences within Fascist Italy, Nazi Germany, and including Austria and Germany where relevant to the story.Essential reading for anyone needing to understand the complex and turbulent history of the region, the volume offers key facts and figures supported by commentaries, chronologies, and biographical essays, and includes a glossary of terms and a full bibliography.