The Bottom Line
An ambitious and successful examination of the world during the 1930's, The Dark Valley balances itself perfectly between internal politics and global systems, illuminating the era which produced totalitarian states and New Deals.
Pros
- The content has a truly global sweep.
- An intelligent and balanced account.
- Necessary for both modern and historical commentators.
Cons
- Antiquated characterisation.
- Short bibliography.
Description
- 702 pages, including 41 glossy pictures.
- Copious endnotes and select bibliography.
- Published by Pimlico, ISBN: 0712667148.
Guide Review - The Dark Valley - A Panorama of the 1930s by Piers Brendon
A recipient of massive acclaim, The Dark Valley swiftly entered the pantheon of modern history greats, those rare books combining quality scholarship, popular appeal and excellent sales. It's hard to fault such an achievement, because even if you disagree with Brendon's arguments, the standard of his analysis, assemblage of material and scale of vision cannot be faulted. For the full review, click below.
