Unarmed Against Hitler: Civilian Resistance in Europe, 1939-1943 [Paperback]

Jacques Semelin (Author)

Book Description

ISBN-10: 0275939618 | ISBN-13: 978-0275939618 | Publication Date: June 30, 1993

Resistance in German-occupied Europe is generally understood as insurrectional violence. However, as soon as the war broke out, thousands of people engaged in civil disobedience---manifested through strikes, demonstrations, and the activities of medical organizations, courts of law, and churches. Jacques Semelin gathers evidence for the untold story of a movement that took place in France, Belgium, the Netherlands, Norway, Denmark as well as Poland, Czechoslovakia, Romania, and Germany itself. A widespread campaign contested authority and paved the way for later armed resistance and the eventual defeat of the Nazis. This study goes beyond historical interest. It is ethical in scope and deals with civilian strategy at large. To what extent is society prepared to face aggression, whether external or internal? As such, it is of value not only to military historians and other students of World War II, but it provides thoughtful approaches for political scientists and others concerned with contemporary issues of violence and civil disobedience.

Editorial Reviews

Review

“With great clarity and scholarship, Semelin goes beyond historical particulars to define the basic principles that underlay civilian resistance. This is an exceptional work, one that shows how important the resistance was-and not just in military terms-even before the tide of war changed in 1943. General, advance undergraduate, and above.”–Choice

“The book is a must read in this season of homage to the military sacrifice, not to defame those losses, but to honor all who wove the tapestry of valiant resistance to tyranny.”–The Journal of Military History

“....offers some very valuable insights. Should be read by policy makers and theorists interested in international defense in the nuclear age.”–ARMOR --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.

Language Notes

Text: English (translation)
Original Language: French --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.

See all Editorial Reviews

Product Details

• Paperback: 208 pages
• Publisher: Praeger Paperback (June 30, 1993)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0275939618
• ISBN-13: 978-0275939618
• Product Dimensions: 9 x 5.8 x 0.7 inches
• Shipping Weight: 11.2 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #1,440,020 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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