The End of the Outer Empire

Soviet-East European Relations in Transition, 1985-90

What are the political and economic ramifications of the disintegration of the Iron Curtain for the former Soviet Union's Eastern European allies? The End of the Outer Empire comprehensively examines the relationships between the Soviet Union and her neighbors, focusing particularly on the Gorbachev period (1985-1989), although including the Brezhnev regime when appropriate. This volume contains a great deal of new and interesting material; its analysis reflects both the increasing diversity of development as well as the remarkable change of pace in relations. The contributors do not attempt to articulate absolute verdicts or solutions on what remains a very fluid situation; rather, they seek to map the course of recent turmoil and convey some sense of the main trends of development. A fascinating collection of essays, The End of the Outer Empire explores the underside of the incredible changes now taking place in Eastern Europe. Professors and students of international relations, history, foreign policy, and Soviet and European studies will find this volume to be an essential addition to their classrooms as well as their libraries.