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

In the Midst of Civilized Europe presents a meticulous, original, and deeply affecting historical account of the slaughter of over one hundred thousand Ukrainian Jews in the aftermath of the Russian Revolution. It demonstrates how this wave of genocidal violence created the conditions for the Holocaust, using long-neglected archival materials and witness testimonies.

Format: Hardback
Length: 480 pages
Publication date: 11 November 2021
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. Author Jeffrey Veidlinger, in his meticulously researched and compelling narrative, delves into the depths of this dark period.

Between 1918 and 1921, a wave of violence engulfed Ukraine, as ordinary citizens, townsmen, and soldiers perpetrated heinous acts against their Jewish neighbors. In hundreds of separate incidents, Jews were subjected to unimaginable atrocities, including robbery, arson, desecration of Torah scrolls, sexual assault, and brutal murder. These pogroms, often referred to as ethnic riots, dominated the headlines and international affairs of their time.

The magnitude of this genocide was staggering, with aid workers warning that six million Jews were at risk of complete extermination. Yet, twenty years later, these dire predictions would come true, as the Holocaust unfolded in full force. Veidlinger's book is a groundbreaking exploration of how this wave of genocidal violence laid the groundwork for the Holocaust.

Through the lens of survivors, perpetrators, aid workers, and governmental officials, Veidlinger unravels the complex web of factors that led to the acceptance of killing Jews as a solution to various problems. He sheds light on the societal, political, and economic factors that fueled anti-Semitism and the willingness of ordinary people to participate in acts of unimaginable cruelty.

"In the Midst of Civilized Europe" is a powerful testament to the resilience and humanity of those who survived the pogroms and the Holocaust. It serves as a reminder of the importance of never forgetting the past and the dangers of prejudice and hatred. This book is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the complexities of human history and the urgent need for tolerance and compassion in our world.

Weight: 718g
Dimension: 243 x 164 x 45 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781509867448