Crimean Conflicts by Sabine Lorca

Crimean Conflicts explores the pivotal role of Crimea in shaping geopolitical power dynamics across centuries. Focusing on military conflicts, political power struggles, and Crimea's significance to Russian identity, the book argues that the region's strategic location has made it a constant target for imperial ambitions. Crimea's history reveals how power, geography, and identity intertwine, creating cycles of conflict. For example, the Crimean War highlights the peninsula's vulnerability as a focal point for competing powers, while the Russian annexation in the 18th century underscores its importance in shaping Russian national identity.

The book progresses chronologically, beginning with the Crimean Khanate and culminating in the 2014 crisis. It analyzes key conflicts, such as the Crimean War and World War II battles fought on the peninsula, through the lenses of military strategy and political maneuvering. By integrating military history with political analysis, Crimean Conflicts offers a unique perspective on the region’s narrative. This approach provides valuable insights for understanding Crimea's enduring geopolitical vulnerability and its continued importance in international relations.