The Gates of Europe: A History of Ukraine

by Serhii Plokhy
The Gates of Europe: A History of Ukraine cover
Good Books rating 4.42
History, Political, Military, Adventure
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Paperback • £12.99
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  • ID: 11509
  • Added: 2026-03-09
  • Updated: 2026-03-11
  • ISBN: 9780465093465
  • Publisher: Hachette UK
  • Published: 2017-05-30
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3

The Gates of Europe delves into the rich and complex history of Ukraine, a nation often overlooked but strategically vital. Situated at the crossroads of Central Europe, Russia, and the Middle East, Ukraine has been shaped by various empires exploiting its position as a gateway between East and West. This book examines Ukraine's search for identity through the lives of key historical figures, from heroes to conquerors, providing a vivid connection between the nation's past and its present struggles. As Ukraine faces yet another crisis with Russia, Plokhy's revised edition brings the history up to date, offering a comprehensive understanding of the nation's journey. This New York Times bestseller is an exemplary account of Europe's least-known large country, making it essential reading for those interested in history, politics, and international relations.

Reviews
Regarp · 2022-10-30
essential 4.00

The review highlights the book's comprehensive coverage of Ukraine's history, noting its relevance in understanding current geopolitical tensions. It praises the author's ability to weave together complex historical events into a coherent narrative.

This review emphasizes the book's timeliness, especially in the context of recent global events. The reviewer appreciates how the author, Serhii Plokhy, manages to present a detailed and nuanced history of Ukraine, making it accessible and engaging for readers. The book is seen as an essential read for understanding the broader European context and the specific challenges faced by Ukraine. The reviewer also notes the author's skill in balancing historical facts with a compelling narrative, making the book both informative and enjoyable.

Quick quotes

    Still reeling from the pandemic, the world was rocked to its core on ...

    Serhii Plokhy presents a remarkable study of one of the most neglected geographic and cultural crossroads of European history.

    Emerging from the forests and steppes of Eastern Europe, Ukraine has long been a battleground for competing empires.

Europe Now Journal · 2022-05-04
ambitious 4.50

The review describes the book as an ambitious and passionate overview of Ukraine's history, highlighting its surprising and often overlooked aspects. It commends the author's ability to present a complex history in an engaging manner.

This review praises the book for its ambitious scope and passionate presentation of Ukraine's history. The reviewer notes that the book is not just a chronological account but also delves into the cultural and political dynamics that have shaped Ukraine over the centuries. The reviewer appreciates the author's ability to make complex historical events understandable and engaging, making it a valuable resource for both academics and general readers. The book is seen as a significant contribution to the understanding of Ukrainian history and its impact on Europe.

Quick quotes

    The Gates of Europe is an ambitious, passionate, and often surprising overview of Ukraine's long and complicated history.

    While it was surely written before the current war, it is a timely and necessary read.

    Plokhy's narrative is engaging and accessible, making it a valuable resource for both academics and general readers.

The Independent · 2015-12-03
masterly 4.75

The review describes the book as a masterly survey of Ukrainian history, noting the author's ability to present grim facts without belaboring them. It highlights the book's comprehensive coverage and the author's skillful narration.

This review commends the book for its masterful survey of Ukrainian history, noting the author's ability to present a comprehensive and nuanced account of the country's past. The reviewer appreciates the author's skill in presenting grim historical facts without dwelling on them, allowing the facts to speak for themselves. The book is seen as an essential read for understanding the complexities of Ukrainian history and its impact on the broader European context. The reviewer also notes the author's ability to weave together various historical events into a coherent and engaging narrative, making the book both informative and enjoyable.

Quick quotes

    A masterly surveyor of Ukrainian history, Plokhy does not belabour the many horrors he describes; he doesn't have to, grim facts speak for themselves.

    Plokhy's narrative is engaging and accessible, making it a valuable resource for both academics and general readers.

    The Gates of Europe is an essential read for understanding the complexities of Ukrainian history and its impact on the broader European context.

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