La rascruce: Toamna anului 1917 – primavara lui 1918 : Marea Britanie si incheierea de catre Romania a unei paci separate = At the cross-roads … making of a separate peace (Romanian Edition)

Delve into the tumultuous era of World War I with “La Rscruce: Toamna anului 1917 – Primvara lui 1918” (At the Crossroads: Autumn 1917 – Spring 1918), a compelling exploration of Romania’s precarious position and its delicate dance with Great Britain during the critical period leading to the Treaty of Bucharest. Authored by the distinguished Romanian historian George Cipianu, this book offers a profound analysis of the diplomatic pressures and strategic calculations that defined Romania’s foreign policy as it navigated the complexities of a devastating global conflict. Cipianu meticulously reconstructs the intricate web of relations between Romania and Great Britain, revealing the behind-the-scenes negotiations, diplomatic maneuvers, and power plays that shaped Romania’s decision to seek a separate peace with the Central Powers. The book brilliantly illuminates the context of Romania’s isolation after Russia’s exit from the war, and the dire military situation that forced the Romanian government to the negotiating table. He presents this complex historical turning point from both the Romanian and British perspectives, acknowledging the motivations and constraints of each nation. This Romanian edition, published by Editura Cogito in 1993, is a treasure trove of primary source materials, drawing extensively on previously untapped archives to provide a fresh and nuanced understanding of the events. Cipianu skillfully weaves together official documents, private correspondence, and contemporary reports to paint a vivid picture of the political climate, the personalities involved, and the agonizing choices that confronted Romanian leaders. Beyond a mere recounting of historical events, “La Rscruce” offers a compelling analysis of the broader geopolitical landscape of Europe during World War I. It examines the impact of the war on Romania’s internal politics, its national identity, and its future trajectory as a nation. The book also explores the intricate relationship between Romania and Great Britain, highlighting the tensions and shared interests that defined their alliance. Readers interested in the diplomatic history of World War I, the foreign relations of Romania and Great Britain, or the political dynamics of Europe in the early 20th century will find “La Rscruce” to be an indispensable resource. Cipianu’s insightful analysis and meticulous research make this book a valuable contribution to the field of historical scholarship and a compelling read for anyone seeking to understand the complexities of a pivotal moment in Romanian and European history. While copies may be difficult to come by, this edition provides a unique insight into a relatively understudied aspect of the First World War, offering a valuable perspective that goes beyond the well-trodden narratives of Western Front battles. A must-have for serious students of Romanian history and international relations during WWI.