Many historians explain the brutal emergence of the Nazi party in Germany in terms of national prejudices or Hitler's charismatic demagoguery. In this extraordinary Marxist analysis; Donny Gluckstein take issue with such arguments; demonstrating that at the height of an economic crisis in one of the most advanced countries in the world; it was the Nazis’ commitment to annihilating the gains of working-class organizations that made their political platform attractive to the German ruling class.Though anti-Semitism was at the center of Nazi ideology; it was not enough to propel the party to popularity; the Nazis were a minor; politically irrelevant force until the collapse of the German economy. Only then did their promise of relief from the hardships of the Depression pave the way for fascism's wider appeal and ultimate rise to power. Yet this rise did not go unchallenged. Gluckstein also provides an analysis of working-class resistance to the Nazis.As the global economy careens into a new period of crisis; far-right and explicitly fascist parties are gaining ground across Europe. The urgency of preventing a resurgence of fascism in the twenty-first century makes it more necessary than ever to understand the political and social context of the Nazis’ ascent to power in Germany.
#757790 in Books 2013-01-09Original language:EnglishPDF # 1 9.30 x 1.20 x 6.40l; 1.10 #File Name: 1605984019336 pages
Review
20 of 20 people found the following review helpful. Dining and DiplomacyBy Jon SalletPoliticians; especially leaders like Churchill and Franklin Roosevelt; often seem to live at an Olympian-level; far above day-to-day concerns as they direct great matters of state. But the art of diplomacy on the biggest of issues often depends to a surprising degree on small gestures and quiet; personal connections. Cita Stelzer opens the door to a little-explored aspect of how Churchill used the simple act of dining to achieve political aims. Working to bring the U.S. into the war against Germany; forging an Allied strategy towards the invasion of Europe; and confronting the Soviet Union's post-War ambitions includes; it turns out; careful attention to both maps and menus; to military movements and seating charts. Ms. Stelzer demonstrates that Churchill used all the tools in his arsenal (and all the dinner selections at his disposal) to forge policy and to advance his art of persuasion. We know that Churchill was a great statesman; this portrait demonstrates; as well; that he was a man with whom it would have been delightful to share a meal.5 of 5 people found the following review helpful. I would love to have dinner with WinstonBy JeanThe author’s purports to show the importance of Churchill’s dinners to his diplomacy; but is somewhat weak in developing this part of the book. On the other hand the book does reveal Churchill’s gastronomic taste. Eating; drinking and smoking habits were part of Churchill’s persona in his later years. The book covers these areas in great detail. Stelzer keeps pointing out that WSC followed the 19th century manner of formal dining with fancy china and cutlery and multiple courses. All dinners were working dinners; they had a purpose. Stelzer discuss how meticulous WSC was in planning his dinners from menu to sitting placement. He also worked and planned the conversation for the meal almost as much as he did his speeches. The author also emphases Churchill’s wit and humor along with his impeccable manners. She also states she was surprise to learn that Churchill loved picnics. Stelzer states that WSC liked roast beef; Johnny Walker Red or Black Label whiskey; Pol Rogers champagne; Havana cigars and consommé soups. He liked most foods except he disliked creamed soups. Little new is revealed about Churchill; however; it is well written and lots of entertaining trivia is provided. The book is easy to read and is very enjoyable. Oh; how I would have loved to have been a guest at one of his dinners. I read this as an e-book on my Kindle app for my iPad.10 of 10 people found the following review helpful. What a cool concept fumbled.By Patrick SinclairStelzer had a great idea -- and one that surely marketed well. But the execution of this book was disappointing. The chapters follow a banal formula: brief historical context; arduous travel plans; menu; caveat that Churchill was not a drunk; the Russian send caviar and we are told that Churchill was brilliant (with no examples of his brilliance).
