Paradoxically, the relations between Britain and Russia have not been sufficiently explored over their long duration. The starting point of this book is the Battle of Navarino, a pivotal event – military, geopolitical, diplomatic – that is inextricably linked to the successful course of the Greek Revolution. For in October 1827, a wonderful example of harmonious cooperation among the Great Powers of that time manifested itself in practice.
Lord David Owen, with his critical eye turned both to the past and the present, wonders whether similar alliances are feasible in today's world. Here, he analyzes the relations between the West and Russia over the last two hundred years, including the period of the Soviet Union and the Cold War. Canning, Codrington, Churchill, Stalin, Marshall, Thatcher, Gorbachev, Putin, Obama, and Biden are just some of the leaders who appear in these pages.
The author's classical education, his humanitarian perspective, valuable experience, unwavering love for Greece, and extensive knowledge of its history make Riddle, Mystery and Enigma an inspired, enlightening, and captivating read.
“Any book on Anglo-Russian relations by the most prominent living former Foreign Secretary of Great Britain would be interesting in itself, but a book written with insight and vigor by a historian of Lord Owen's caliber is a major publishing event. Having understood the distant past, he traces the more recent past – such as his own protest against the Soviet invasion of Hungary in 1956 – to guide us to the modern era while highlighting the noble heroism of Alexei Navalny. Thoughtfulness, erudition, and sound judgment permeate every page.” Andrew Roberts, historian and author of Churchill: Walking with Destiny.
“The Anglo-Russian relations, which today are going through a period of deep chill, have been pivotal in shaping European and world history. Greece has been a crucial issue in the evolution of these relations and has experienced their convulsions since its independence, which would not have been achieved if London and St. Petersburg had not reached an understanding and agreed that the Greeks should be vindicated for their struggle against the Ottoman Empire. Therefore, it is not surprising that Greece is a very interesting aspect of Lord Owen's new book, particularly concerning its independence and the role played in it by one of the 'titans' (as the author describes him) of the 19th-century British political scene, George Canning. He was the one who essentially set up the diplomatic chessboard in such a way that, along with the conduct of the Battle of Navarino, it opened the way for Greek independence.” Angelos Al. Athanasopoulos, To Vima.
Format: Hardcover
ISBN: 978-960-03-6941-0
Author: David Owen
Translation: Marianna Giantzi
Pages: 520
Publication Date: December 6, 2021
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