In the Midst of Civilized Europe: The 1918-1921 Pogroms in Ukraine and the Onset of the Holocaust

In the Midst of Civilized Europe presents a compelling account of the forgotten holocaust of over one hundred thousand Ukrainian Jews in the aftermath of the Russian Revolution. It demonstrates how ordinary people perpetrated these crimes and how they were motivated by anti-Semitism and a desire to blame the Jews for the revolution's turmoil. The book highlights the importance of studying this period to understand the roots of the Holocaust and to prevent future genocides.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 480 pages
Publication date: 03 November 2022
Publisher: Pan Macmillan

In the aftermath of the Russian Revolution, a harrowing chapter of history was overlooked—the tragic slaughter of over one hundred thousand Ukrainian Jews. In a book that shines a light on a forgotten holocaust, "In the Midst of Civilized Europe" reevaluates the pogroms as a pivotal moment of the twentieth century.

The book, meticulously researched and written with clarity, delves into the depths of this dark period. It reveals the shocking accounts of ordinary people who perpetrated acts of violence against their Jewish neighbors, including robbing, burning, and sexually assaulting them. These pogroms, often referred to as ethnic riots, dominated headlines and international affairs, raising concerns about the potential extermination of six million Jews.

However, the book goes beyond mere historical documentation. Acclaimed historian Jeffrey Veidlinger employs a wealth of long-neglected archival materials, including thousands of newly discovered witness testimonies, trial records, and official orders, to shed light on the origins and consequences of this wave of genocidal violence. Through compelling stories of survivors, perpetrators, aid workers, and governmental officials, Veidlinger unravels the complex factors that led to the acceptance of killing Jews as a solution to various problems.

The book highlights the role of propaganda, societal tensions, and economic hardships in perpetuating anti-Jewish sentiments. It explores how the perception of Jews as a threat to national stability and social order fueled the violence and led to the dehumanization of their victims. Veidlinger also sheds light on the international response to the pogroms, highlighting the failure of governments and organizations to intervene effectively and prevent the escalation of violence.

"In the Midst of Civilized Europe" serves as a powerful reminder of the dangers of prejudice, hatred, and the potential for genocide. It challenges us to confront our past and learn from history to ensure that such atrocities are never repeated. The book is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the importance of empathy and compassion in a world that continues to grapple with the legacy of hatred and violence.

In conclusion, "In the Midst of Civilized Europe" is a must-read for anyone interested in history, genocide, and the human condition. It provides a comprehensive and deeply researched account of a forgotten holocaust and offers valuable insights into the complex factors that led to such tragic events. Through the stories of survivors, perpetrators, and those who witnessed the horrors, the book sheds light on the enduring impact of prejudice and the urgent need for social change.

Dimension: 197 x 130 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781509867479