Western European Communists and the Collapse of Communism [Hardcover]

This book examines the pedicament of Western Communist Parties faced with the impact of reforms in the Soviet Union initiated by Grobachev, the collapse of the Eastern bloc and the end of 'really existing socialism' in the USS in the USSR in the early 1990s..

The articles are written by some of the best scholars in the field. The depth and breadth of analysis of each of the chapters makes this book one of the most interesting and stimulating recent contributions to our understanding of the Communist fringe in Western Europe. It is also a major addition to the ongoing discussion on the current and future role and strategy of what remains of the traditional and new Left in the national politics of the dozen West European countries included in this collection. The International History Review

David Bell gives a useful introduction which is insightful, yet succinct. Political Studies

The collection...offers a useful comparative framework, as well as information about the background to the changes undergone and difficulties still ahead in the search for stable new ground. Modern and Contemporary France

... the analyses of both the French (by Bell) and the Spanish CPs are excellent. J.Amodia's account of the abject end of Spanish communism is captivating and accurate. Choice

David S. Bell teaches at Leeds University