Peter Calvocoressi's engrossing volume explores controversial questions about the ending of World War II and its long-term consequences. He discusses fundamental and highly charged issues including both the Nuremberg Trials and the bombing of Dresden; and the statesmanship of Winston Churchill; and examines major processes like the postwar renewal of France and the origins of the European Community. The result links the Europes of World War II, the Cold War and the post-Cold War world into a complex chain, and throws a searching light on them all. Issues discussed include: * was World War II a war against fascism, or a war against Germany? * did the total defeat of Germany unnecessary prolong the conflict and facilitate the division of Europe? * was the Cold War, and that division, an inevitable sequel? * what happened to fascism and where does it stand today?