<P><B></B> Clearly written and understandably organized, this classic book about European political, social, economic, and intellectual history covers events throughout the Continent from 1914 to the present, treating Europe as a single unit. This new edition features a thoroughly updated final chapter with the latest research on contemporary subjects. <B></B> The author begins with a view of Europe in 1914 with an emphasis on Eastern Europe, Scandinavia, and the Mediterranean, as well as on Western Europe. The book thoroughly covers such contemporary topics as: the successful launch of the Euro as the currency of the European Union; the election of Vladimir Putin and the emergence of a new Russia; the election of Tony Blair and the rise of New Labor in the United Kingdom; the expansion of NATO; the rise of right-wing extremism; and the tense relations between Europeans and immigrant groups, particularly Muslims; all topics contribute to this being the leading source of information on this important and timely field. Coverage also includes: the First World War; the Russian Revolution and its consequences; technology and society; the high culture of the 1920s; the Great Depression; the Fascist regimes; the Stalinist system; the Second World War; the Cold War; the loss of Colonial Empire; achieving prosperity; and the future of a new Europe. <B>For readers who wish to own a comprehensive and interesting book about the contemporary history of Europe; this book will also serve as an excellent reference for scholars of history or those who are involved in firms that trade internationally. </P>