Name: A Concise History of Romania
ISBN: 9780521872386

Keith Hitchins

A comprehensive and engaging new history charting Romania's development over 2000 years from its establishment to the present day.

A Concise History of Romania

Spanning a period of 2000 years from the Roman conquest of Dacia to the present day, A Concise History of Romania traces the development of a unique nation situated on the border between East and West. In this illuminating new history, Keith Hitchins explores Romania's struggle to find its place amidst two diverse societies: one governed by Eastern orthodox tradition, spirituality and agriculture and the other by Western rationalism, experimentation and capitalism. The book charts Romania's advancement through five significant phases of its history: medieval, early modern, modern and finally the nation's 'return to Europe'; evaluating all the while Romania's part in European politics, economic and social change, intellectual and cultural renewals and international entanglements. This is a fascinating history of an East European nation; one which sheds new light on the complex evolution of the Romanians and the identity they have successfully crafted from a unique synthesis of traditions.

A quick overview of Romanian History. Well written and engaging, if a bit dense at times. Ultimately, Hitchens’ book is a great introduction to Romanian history, as he provides an unbiased account of Romania, it’s national movement, flirtations with Fascism and Communism, and re-entry into Europe. As with many other European histories - this one is quite bottom heavy: Approximately 3/4 of the book focuses on the 19th century and after - though this makes sense as the very idea of “Romania” did not exist until around this time. I took no issue with this, but readers looking for medieval history may want to consider a different book.

A Concise History of Romania

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