The Curtain Rises: Oral Histories of the Fall of Communism in Eastern Europe

Shapiro, Susan G./ Shapiro, Ronald/ Lorant, Elizabeth (Foreward By)

ISBN 10: 0786416726 / ISBN 13: 9780786416721

Published by McFarland & Co Inc Pub, 2004

About this Item

239 pages. 8.75x6.00x0.50 inches. In Stock.

Seller Inventory # x-0786416726

Bibliographic Details

• Title: The Curtain Rises: Oral Histories of the Fall of Communism in Eastern Europe
• Publisher: McFarland & Co Inc Pub
• Publication Date: 2004
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0786416726
• ISBN 13: 9780786416721
• Binding: Paperback
• Condition: Brand New
• Weight: 0.34 kilograms

About this title

Synopsis

Much has been written about how the authoritarianism of the Communist era gave way to more open societies in the former Soviet bloc countries, yet little has been said about how individuals in these countries have been affected and how they contributed to the changes in their societies. How does the relationship between husband and wife change when planned economy gives way to financial incertitude? When all are free to speak their minds publicly, are children more likely to do so at home or at school? How do the elderly adjust to new laws and fewer pensions?

This book describes, in their own words, the lives of everyday people in Romania, Hungary, the Czech Republic, Lithuania, and the Former Yugoslav republic of Macedonia as they struggled under Soviet domination, as they endured the revolutions in their respective countries, and as they now adapt to a free world society. These individuals, struggling with philosophical, political, educational, cultural, and spiritual adjustments, are entrepreneurs, political activists, scientists, and teachers. They are assuming leadership roles in local politics and implementing reforms in the schools. The book includes photographs, maps, and short introductory national histories.

About the Authors

Susan G. Shapiro is a health education consultant and author. She lives in Silver Springs, Maryland.

Ronald Shapirois a foreign business development consultant and lecturer in Silver Springs, Maryland.