Andres Kasekamp

Read this book in preparation for a visit to the Baltic region of Europe next month. Kasekamp emphasizes political history with a few asides to consider economic and social matters. While dry in style, it is a good survey. I like how the author includes data tables showing population changes and other data points. Interesting comparative discussions concerning how the three countries treated Jewish resident over time, differing interactions with Germany and Russia and more. The discussion of show more the longstanding influence of the "Baltic Germans" to be particularly fascinating - these aristocrats "punched above their weight class" in terms of leadership roles including in state administration and the military. show less

Travel preparation for Baltic Cruise.....so glad I read it. Troubled history but resilient people!