Odessa Recollected: The Port and the People

Odessa, a Ukrainian city, was once a Russian Empire and Soviet Union economic asset. It was a non-conformist city with a European style. After the Soviet Union's collapse, Odessa became neglected and lost its foreign flavor. With the current hostilities in Eastern Ukraine, the fate of the former Pearl of the Black Sea hangs in suspension, as it could become a possible land bridge to the Crimean Peninsula.

\n Format: Hardback
\n Length: 256 pages
\n Publication date: 30 December 2018
\n Publisher: Academic Studies Press
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The vibrant Ukrainian city of Odessa, once a cherished economic asset for the Russian Empire and a beloved resort town for the Soviet Union, has evolved into a highly contentious region. Throughout its history, Odessa has consistently showcased a unique blend of rambunctious energy and European sophistication, making it a non-conformist metropolis. Imperial Russian tsars and Soviet leaders held a complex relationship with this maverick city, simultaneously appreciating the fame and fortune it brought while also displaying apprehension towards the activities of secret foreign national societies, pogromists, revolutionaries, and the perceived lack of patriotism in a city situated far from the heart of Russia.

However, as the Soviet Union's grip on the region weakened, Odessa began to fade into obscurity, losing its foreign charm. The decline of the lucrative grain trade further exacerbated this situation, leaving the city in a state of neglect. With the independence of Ukraine in 1991, there was a renewed sense of hope that Odessa's architectural beauty and economic potential would be revitalized.

Unfortunately, the current hostilities in Eastern Ukraine have cast a shadow over the city's future. With the potential of the Odessa area becoming a crucial land bridge to the Crimean Peninsula, the fate of the former Pearl of the Black Sea hangs in suspense. The ongoing conflict has raised concerns about the safety and stability of the region, further exacerbating the uncertainty surrounding Odessa's future.

As the situation unfolds, it is clear that Odessa's history, cultural heritage, and geopolitical significance make it a pivotal player in the ongoing dynamics of Eastern Europe. The city's ability to navigate the challenges posed by its complex past and present circumstances will determine its trajectory and impact on the region's future. Whether it can reclaim its former glory or face new challenges, Odessa remains a city of immense importance and interest.

\n Weight: 708g\n
Dimension: 192 x 270 x 20 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781618117366\n \n