Central Europe / Eastern Europe: Behind the Definitions
Author(s)
Okey, Robin
Abstract
The differing definitions of Central and Eastern Europe have their basis in differing perceptions of association, whether regional, cultural or political. For most historians, Germany’s involvement in the affairs of the countries to the East have caused them to place that country as a central power. To the Balkan and Slavic countries, Germany’s history places it solidly in the West and Russia is not considered European at all. Germany’s recent peaceful overtures to these countries as a result of the end of communist rule will change things again. The various perspectives are surveyed.
