Forgotten Bastards of the Eastern Front

Discover the compelling narrative of 'Forgotten Bastards of the Eastern Front,' a captivating exploration of one of World War II's intriguing yet overlooked alliances. This meticulously researched book by award-winning historian Serhii Plokhy uncovers the tumultuous collaboration between American and Soviet forces during a pivotal moment in history. With the backdrop of November 1943, as the Allies sought to change the course of the war, Plokhy draws on newly accessible Russian archives and CIA records to reveal the complexities of Operation Baseball and Frantic—a daring attempt to establish US Air Force bases in Soviet-held territory.

This insightful 368-page volume dives into the cultural and political dynamics that influenced the relationship between these two military giants, highlighting how initial cooperation quickly soured. Find out why American soldiers referred to themselves as the 'Forgotten Bastards of Ukraine' amidst rising tensions and Soviet surveillance. Perfect for history buffs and readers interested in World War II narratives, this book provides a bottom-up perspective that challenges the traditional accounts of the Grand Alliance.

Whether you are exploring military history, the Second World War's social implications, or simply seeking a riveting read, 'Forgotten Bastards of the Eastern Front' is a must-have addition to your collection. Available in brand new condition and published by Penguin UK, this paperback format is ideal for both casual reading and scholarly study. Plus, enjoy free shipping on your order today!

Condition: BRAND NEW
ISBN: 9780141991108
Format: B-format paperback
Year: 2020
Publisher: Penguin UK
Pages: 368


Description:
In November 1943, with the outcome of the Second World War hanging in the balance, the Allies needed a new plan. The Americans' audacious suggestion to the Soviets was to open a second air front, with the US Air Force establishing bases in Soviet-controlled territory. Despite Stalin's obvious reservations about the presence of foreign troops in Russia, he was persuaded, and in early 1944 and Operation Baseball and then Frantic were initiated as B-17 Superfortresses were flown from bases in Italy to the Poltova region in today's Ukraine.Award-winning historian Serhii Plokhy tells the gripping, little-known story of this encounter between American and Soviet soldiers and how their collaboration quickly fell apart, mirroring the transition from the Grand Alliance to the Cold War. Soviet secret policemen watched over the Americans, shadowing their every move. A catastrophic air raid by the Germans revealed the limitations of Soviet air defences. As their initial enthusiasm turned into disappointment, the American soldiers started calling themselves the Forgotten Bastards of Ukraine. Ultimately, no common purpose could overcome their cultural and political differences.Drawing on newly opened Russian archives as well as CIA records, Forgotten Bastards of the Eastern Front offers a riveting bottom-up history one of the Second World War's most unlikely alliances.

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