When talk about the post-war-era comes up, many – particularly the Germans – spontaneously think of the “Economic Miracle”. However, there is of course more to it than a mere transition from the end of war to an economic miracle.
In his book “Savage Continent – Europe in the Aftermath of World War II” Keith Lowe gives an unembellished picture of the times back then characterized by destruction, homelessness, hunger, displacement, rape, death, etc. and describes well how Europe plunged into a chaos and anarchy. He does not limit his statements on external conditions and real occurrences but also makes the effects of brutalization and omnipresent fear on individuals and societies a subject.
Perhaps you are one of those who do not understand why prejudices, fears or even hatred do still exist amongst European peoples and ethnic groups. After having read this book you will probably be rather surprised, but as well proud that a cooperation across political and cultural borders could have been established in Europe.
free translation of the German orignial