| Popis: |
The Balkans is defined as a region shaped by four characteristics that provide a context for the actions and aspirations of the leaders of the major competitor for dominance during and immediately after the Second World War. These characteristics are: (1) a topography that permits easy access for external intervention but raises physical obstacles to political unity or domination; (2) a mixed and changing ethnic and social composition of the population; (3) a tradition of irregular warfare; and (4) weak state-building with the frequent intervention of foreign powers. Against this background, the approach guiding the narrative focuses on leadership in the Weberian sense of charisma with Mussolini, Hitler, Stalin, Tito, and Churchill representing variations on the theme. Their shared personal traits are analyzed as well as their contrasting operative styles. |
