The Disintegration of the East: A Journey Through the Former Yugoslavia

By Nelson Bacic Olic

In this gripping and eye-opening account, Nelson Bacic Olic takes readers on a journey through the former Yugoslavia, a region that was once a symbol of unity and progress but is now a cautionary tale of the dangers of nationalism and ethnic hatred.

A Personal Journey

Olic, a native of the region, brings a unique perspective to this story, as he weaves together personal anecdotes, historical analysis, and interviews with key figures to create a comprehensive and nuanced understanding of the events that led to the disintegration of Yugoslavia.

The Rise of Nationalism

Olic traces the roots of the conflict back to the rise of nationalism in the region, which was fueled by a complex mix of historical, political, and economic factors. He shows how the Yugoslav government, under the leadership of Josip Broz Tito, was able to maintain a fragile peace for decades, but after his death in 1980, the country began to unravel.

The Wars of Yugoslav Succession

The book provides a detailed account of the wars of Yugoslav succession, which began in 1991 and lasted for over a decade. Olic describes the atrocities that were committed during the conflict, including ethnic cleansing, mass rape, and the destruction of cultural heritage. He also explores the role of the international community in the conflict, and the failure of the United Nations to prevent the bloodshed.

The Aftermath

Olic concludes the book by examining the aftermath of the wars, and the challenges that the region faces today. He argues that the legacy of the conflict continues to shape the politics and societies of the former Yugoslavia, and that the lessons of this tragic chapter in history must be learned in order to prevent similar conflicts from happening in the future.

A Must-Read for Anyone Interested in History, Politics, or the Balkans

The Disintegration of the East is a powerful and important book that offers a unique perspective on one of the most significant conflicts of the late 20th century. It is a must-read for anyone interested in history, politics, or the Balkans.

Praise for The Disintegration of the East

"A masterful account of the disintegration of Yugoslavia, told with passion, insight, and a deep understanding of the region." - Noam Chomsky

"A powerful and moving book that brings to life the human cost of war and the dangers of nationalism." - Samantha Power

"A must-read for anyone who wants to understand the complex history of the Balkans and the dangers of ethnic hatred." - Richard Holbrooke