Berlin: Hostage For The West by John Mander (Vintage 1962 Edition)

“Berlin: Hostage for the West” is a book by John Mander that was first published in 1962. The book examines the political and social situation in Berlin during the period of the Cold War.

At the heart of the book is the idea that Berlin was a “hostage for the West” – a city that was surrounded by communist East Germany and heavily dependent on the Western powers for its survival. Mander argues that the Soviet Union saw Berlin as a key bargaining chip in its efforts to control Europe, and that the West was equally determined to maintain its presence in the city as a symbol of its commitment to the defense of democracy.

Mander provides a detailed history of the post-war division of Germany and the subsequent development of the Cold War. He then examines the various crises that arose in Berlin during this period, including the 1948-49 Berlin Airlift and the construction of the Berlin Wall in 1961.

The book also explores the social and cultural life of the city during this time, including the emergence of a vibrant youth culture and the role of the arts in shaping public opinion. Mander argues that the people of Berlin played a crucial role in maintaining the city’s independence and defending its values against the forces of communism.

Overall, “Berlin: Hostage for the West” offers a comprehensive and engaging account of one of the most important cities in the history of the Cold War. It provides valuable insights into the political and social dynamics of the era, as well as the resilience and determination of the people who lived through it.