An accessible illustrated introduction to the brutal conflict in the
former Yugoslavia, one of the greatest yet least understood tragedies of
the 20th century.
In 1991, an ethnically diverse and peaceful region of Europe descended
into violence, lawlessness, bitter hatred and chaos, almost overnight to
the bewilderment of international observers. Communities fractured along
lines of ethnic and religious affiliation, and the ensuing fighting was
deeply personal, resulting in horrific brutality, rape, torture and
genocide, causing the deaths of thousands of people. Drawing on the
latest research for this new edition, Alastair Finlan examines the
internal upheavals of the former Yugoslavia and their international
implications, including the failure of the Vance-Owen plan; the first
use of NATO in a combat role and in peace enforcement; and the war in
Kosovo, unsanctioned by the UN but prosecuted by NATO forces to prevent
the ethnic cleansing of the region.
Updated and revised, with specially commissioned colour maps and all new
images throughout, this is a concise overview of the tragic conflict in
former Yugoslavia and its significant consequences.