To Hell and Back (Kershaw book)

To Hell and Back is a non-fiction book written by Ian Kershaw, a British historian known for his extensive work on Nazi Germany and Adolf Hitler. Published in 2015, it forms the second volume of Kershaw's history of Europe during World War II. It follows his earlier volume, To Hell and Back: Europe 1914-1949, and continues the narrative from the end of World War I through the mid-20th century.

The book examines the tumultuous period of European history marked by immense political and social upheaval, economic instability, and large-scale violence. It provides an overarching analysis of the forces and events that shaped the continent, focusing on the rise of totalitarian regimes, the two World Wars, the Holocaust, and the subsequent reconstruction era. Kershaw delves into the ideologies, motivations, and consequences of these events, exploring the human cost of conflict and the lasting impact on European societies.

A central theme of To Hell and Back is the exploration of the factors that led Europe to descend into an unprecedented level of barbarity. Kershaw analyzes the interplay of nationalism, racism, economic hardship, and political extremism that fueled the violence and destruction. He also examines the role of individual leaders and the broader social and cultural context in shaping the course of events.

The book is widely regarded as a comprehensive and authoritative account of this pivotal period in European history, drawing on extensive research and offering insightful analysis.