States and nationalism in Europe since 1945

Book abstract:

From the end of the Second World War until the recent break-up of the Communist regimes, there has been a widespread assumption that the age of nationalism had passed, and that nationalism was made up of a set of dangerous and disastrous ideas.

'States and Nationalism' examines the ceaseless controversies surrounding the ideas of the nation and nationalism, and shows that they are very far from dead in twenty-first century Europe. Beginning by defining these terms and setting out theories and concepts clearly and concisely, this book analyses the impact of nationalism since the Second World War, covering themes including: the relationship of nationalism to the Cold War; the re-emergence of demands by stateless nations; European integration and globalisation and their effects; immigration since the 1970's; and the effects of nationalism on the former Soviet Union, Eastern Europe and Yugoslavia.

Part of the 'Making of the Contemporary World' series which aims to provide challenging interpretations of contemporary issues and debates within strongly defined historical frameworks, this is an accessible, concise book which will be of interest, not only to students of modern history but also to students of European studies and those interested in the effects of nationalism in Europe in the past, present and in the future.

Malcolm Anderson is Professor Emeritus of the University of Edinburgh.