Balkan Conflicts by Sabine Lorca

"Balkan Conflicts" explores the long history of conflict in the Balkans, a region marked by ethnic tensions and great power rivalry that has repeatedly destabilized Europe. The book examines the underlying causes of this instability, focusing on overlapping nationalisms where competing claims to territory and identity fueled animosity. Another key aspect is the role of external powers, who often intervened to advance their interests, further exacerbating conflicts. The book argues that the Balkan conflicts were interconnected, driven by internal ethnic divisions and external power dynamics, offering a crucial perspective for understanding the region's ongoing challenges. Readers will gain a comprehensive understanding of the historical context, from the decline of the Ottoman Empire to the Yugoslav Wars, without needing prior specialist knowledge. The analysis relies on a wide range of sources and presents a balanced account of complex events.

The book progresses chronologically, starting with the key historical actors and geopolitical landscape, then moves through major periods of conflict, including the Balkan Wars and both World Wars, concluding with the wars of Yugoslav Succession. Each section analyzes the specific causes, courses, and consequences of the conflicts, highlighting the roles of internal and external actors. The book uniquely emphasizes the interconnectedness of these conflicts, providing a nuanced understanding of the region's history and its impact on modern European borders.