Title: The Fall of Berlin 1945
Author: Antony Beevor
First published May 13, 2002
490 pages, Paperback
Rating: 4.29
Overview
Antony Beevor’s The Fall of Berlin 1945 recounts the harrowing tale of the Red Army’s vengeance as they stormed the Reich in January of that year. The brutal message of Wehrmacht and SS atrocities was engrained in the minds of the political leaders, leading to the most horrific display of destruction the world has ever seen.
From tanks crushing innocent refugees under their tracks to mass rape, pillage, and destruction, the Red Army showed no mercy. Hundreds of thousands of women and children were massacred or left to freeze to death as Nazi Party leaders chose pride and fanaticism over the safety of their people.
Over seven million individuals fled westward, hoping to escape the terror of the Red Army. In this heart-wrenching account of the Third Reich’s final collapse, Beevor brings to light the stories of those who endured unfathomable cruelty, yet somehow found the strength to survive against all odds.
About the Author
Meet Antony James Beevor, a British historian who received his education at Winchester College and Sandhurst. He had the privilege of studying under the renowned World War II historian, John Keegan.
Beevor served as an officer with the 11th Hussars for five years in England and Germany before resigning his commission. He has authored numerous engaging histories on the Second World War and the 20th century as a whole.
Editoral Review
Antony Beevor’s The Fall of Berlin 1945 is a seminal work on the Battle of Berlin during World War II. Beevor is a British historian and author renowned for his ability to bring history to life through his engaging prose and meticulous research.
The book was first published on May 13, 2002 and has since become a classic in the genre of military history. The book details the events that took place during the final days of the Second World War in Europe, with a focus on the battle for Berlin.
Beevor provides a vivid and detailed account of the fighting, the atrocities committed by both sides, and the chaos that followed as the Soviet army entered the city. Using a wealth of primary sources and testimonies, Beevor expertly weaves together the experiences of soldiers and civilians in a way that captures the human cost of war.
One of the strengths of Beevor’s writing is his ability to create complex and nuanced characters on both sides of the conflict. We see the war through the eyes of soldiers from multiple countries, as well as civilians caught up in the fighting.
The portrayal of Soviet soldiers in particular stands out, challenging the stereotypes that have persisted in popular culture. The book also delves into the political and strategic decisions that shaped the course of the war, providing valuable insights into the motivations of the leaders involved.
Beevor’s prose is clear and concise, allowing readers to easily follow the intricate details of the military campaign while also feeling the emotional impact of the events. This is no small feat given the vast scope of the battle and the multitude of characters involved.
Despite its many strengths, The Fall of Berlin 1945 is not without its flaws. At times, the sheer amount of information can be overwhelming, making it difficult to keep track of the various military units and individuals mentioned.
Additionally, some readers may find the level of detail to be excessive or graphic, particularly when it comes to describing the atrocities committed by both sides. Overall, The Fall of Berlin 1945 is a must-read for anyone interested in military history or the Second World War.
Beevor’s skillful storytelling and rigorous research make for a compelling and informative read. While the book may not be for the faint of heart, it provides a valuable perspective on one of the most pivotal moments in modern history.
The Washington Post rates this book a 9 out of 10, as the authors capacity to weave both the human and military perspectives of World War II is impressive.
