To Besiege a City: Leningrad 1941-42

A ground-breaking history of one of the greatest ever sieges, using original Russian and German source material. The book details the first of these offensives, which began in January 1942 and was followed by repeated assaults. It highlights the heroic efforts of the defenders to hold out during this first phase of the siege and the desperate attempts to break it, which became a significant part of Russian wartime history.

Format: Hardback
Length: 464 pages
Publication date: 14 September 2023
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

A groundbreaking account of one of history's most remarkable sieges, meticulously researched and vividly brought to life by a leading expert utilizing original Russian and German source material.

This new history delves into the first two years of the pivotal battle for Russia's heart and soul, marking the first comprehensive examination of the broader military strategies employed by both sides in over a decade.

At a staggering cost, the Red Army and the civilian population of Leningrad endured a grueling 900-day siege, facing relentless bombings, shelling, and starvation. Throughout this ordeal, Soviet forces valiantly attempted to break through German lines and establish communication with the besieged garrison.

To Besiege a City chronicles the initial stages of these offensives, commencing in January 1942 and followed by repeated assaults. Renowned Eastern Front historian Prit Buttar provides a detailed account of how, despite the Red Army facing immense casualties in the swampy and forested terrain, the German infantry divisions also suffered significant losses. Notably, by maintaining control of parts of Lake Ladoga, the Soviet Union was able to sustain Leningrad through the harsh winters of the siege through the "road of life," a vital supply route constructed across the frozen lake.

This epic history unfolds the dramatic race to build the road across the ice, complemented by firsthand accounts from both Soviet and German soldiers, many of which have been translated for the first time. These accounts vividly depict the horrific series of battles and assaults, bringing the reader into the heart of this pivotal period of Russian wartime history.

Ultimately, the unwavering determination of the defenders to hold out during this initial phase of the siege and the desperate efforts to break it played a significant role in shaping Russian wartime history. The echoes of this battle continue to resonate to this day, serving as a testament to the resilience and sacrifice of those who faced unimaginable hardships.

Weight: 872g
Dimension: 240 x 160 x 40 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781472856555