Books Like...

'The Nazi Dictatorship: Problems and Perspectives of Interpretation' by Ian Kershaw is a comprehensive exploration of the historiographical issues surrounding Nazi Germany. Kershaw delves into questions about Hitler's role, the nature of the National Socialist movement, the relationship between the government and the economy, and the German resistance to the regime. Through a critical analysis of various interpretations, Kershaw provides insights into the complexities of the Third Reich and challenges readers to consider the darker aspects of history.

Kershaw's writing style in 'The Nazi Dictatorship' is described as excellent, readable, and coherent. He presents a masterful exploration of how Naziism has been studied, offering a balanced review of different schools of interpretation while providing his own insightful judgments. is praised for its thorough coverage of historical debates, including perspectives from both German and non-German historians, making it a valuable resource for understanding the complexities of the Nazi regime.

In September 1945, intelligence officer Hugh Trevor Roper was tasked with uncovering the circumstances surrounding Hitler's death in the Berlin Bunker. His investigation revealed that Hitler had killed himself, shedding light on the last days of the Thousand Year Reich. The book provides a fascinating insight into the madness and intrigue within Hitler's bunker during the final days of the Third Reich, showcasing the struggle for power among the Fuehrer's henchmen even as the regime crumbled.

'The Last Days of Hitler' is praised for its meticulous research, drawing on historical documents and firsthand testimonies. It offers a compelling narrative of Hitler's last days, portraying a cast of characters entangled in a court drama set in a bunker beneath Berlin. The book delves into the psychology of the embattled Nazis, revealing their fanaticism and delusions as the Third Reich faced its demise.

'The Third Reich in Power' by Richard J. Evans is the second volume in a Nazi trilogy that covers the years 1933 to 1939 in Germany. Evans organizes the vast material thematically rather than chronologically, providing readers with the option to delve into individual chapters like independent shorter books. The book is highly recommended for anyone interested in the subject as it serves as a myth buster in various ways, offering a detailed account of the Nazi party's rise to power and their consolidation of control in Germany.

Evans meticulously traces the acts and impact of the Nazi party from 1933 to the outbreak of the war in 1939, providing readers with a comprehensive understanding of the domestic scene in Germany during this period. The book is described as a substantial and well-researched account that covers various aspects such as propaganda, social engineering, economy, education, and war preparations, shedding light on the complexities and nuances of the Nazi regime's policies and actions.

'The Third Reich at War' by Richard J. Evans delves into the experiences of the average German during the war, exploring how they coped, what kept them going, and the extent of their faith in Hitler. The book provides a detailed account of the governance of territories conquered by Nazi Germany, offering insights into the relationship between the German people and the Nazi regime.

Evans presents a comprehensive narrative of the Third Reich during the war, highlighting the mobilization of complete support and sacrifice by the Germans despite reservations. The book covers various sources, including personal accounts, diaries, letters, and historical documentation, to paint a vivid picture of life in Germany during this tumultuous period.

"Unit 731 Testimony: Japan's Wartime Human Experimentation Program" by Hal Gold delves into the horrifying history of Unit 731, Japan's research into chemical and biological warfare conducted on live humans during World War II. is divided into two parts, with the first half providing a historical overview of Unit 731 and the biography of Ishii Shiro, the key figure behind the Japanese biowarfare movement. The second half consists of firsthand testimonies from individuals who were involved in Unit 731, shedding light on the atrocities committed and the mentality of those responsible.

Richard B. Frank's 'Downfall: The End of the Imperial Japanese Empire' provides a detailed account of the final stages of World War II in the Pacific, focusing on the decision-making processes that led to the atomic bombing of Japan. The book delves into the complexities of the US and Japanese strategies, the military preparations for the invasion of Japan, and the social and economic conditions of Japan in the months leading up to the bombings. Through meticulous research and analysis, Frank explores the narrative of how the war in the Pacific came to an end, shedding light on the key leaders and events that shaped this critical period of history.

Frank's writing style is dense but captivating, offering a scholarly tour de force that unravels the historical context of Japan's surrender. He methodically examines controversial claims and scenarios surrounding the atomic bombings, providing insights into the decision-making processes of influential figures such as President Truman, Emperor Hirohito, Admiral Nimitz, and General MacArthur. By drawing on a wide range of sources, including Japanese perspectives, Frank presents a comprehensive narrative that challenges conventional beliefs about the end of the Pacific War.

'The Coming of the Third Reich' by Richard J. Evans dives into the complexities of the political and social landscape of Germany during the rise of the Nazi regime. Evans provides a detailed account of the Weimar Republic's failings as a democracy, shedding light on the economic hardships, political intrigues, and societal divisions that paved the way for Hitler's ascent to power. Through a masterful narrative, Evans explores the ideological roots of the totalitarian regime, from the Bismarckian Empire to the tumultuous Weimar years, showcasing the gradual erosion of democratic institutions and the rise of authoritarian forces.

Evans presents a compelling analysis of how the Nazi Party capitalized on the discontent and disillusionment prevalent in German society, promising a utopian vision of a racially united Germany. The author challenges misconceptions about the Nazis, highlighting the party's anti-socialist stance and the support it garnered from specific segments of the German population. By delving into the historical roots of Fascism and Nazism, Evans offers a nuanced perspective on the events leading up to the Nazi regime, emphasizing the importance of understanding the societal conditions that allowed such a government to come into power.

Ian Kershaw's book, 'Hitler: 1889-1936 Hubris', is the first volume in a comprehensive biography of Adolf Hitler. The book delves into Hitler's early life, rise to power, and the conditions that led to his emergence as a prominent figure in history. Kershaw's writing style is described as compelling, detailed, and thorough, offering a sensitive and convincing portrayal of Hitler while providing ample context to illuminate the times in which he lived. The book is praised for being well-researched, readable, and for shedding light on Hitler's character and actions without resorting to pop psychology.

'To Hell and Back: Europe, 1914-1949' by Ian Kershaw is an extraordinary history of the boiling struggles in Europe during the first half of the twentieth century, focusing on the two brutal wars that brought death and destruction to wide swaths of Europe. Kershaw paints a narrative chapter by chapter, advancing a few years at a time, while sketching out the political developments, views of the elite and ordinary people, economic and cultural changes. The book provides a comprehensive overview of the period, covering major European nation states and picking out common themes and contrasts among different countries.

Eric Hoffer's 'The True Believer: Thoughts on the Nature of Mass Movements' delves into the psychology behind mass movements, exploring the reasons why individuals are attracted to such movements and become fanatics. Hoffer pays particular attention to fascist, communist, and religious fundamentalist movements, emphasizing the role of hatred as a unifying agent. The book offers insights into how mass movements form and spread, drawing parallels between historical events and contemporary social conditions. Hoffer's writing style is described as pithy and philosophical, with a focus on the frustrated individual seeking purpose through assimilation into a collective whole.