The book draws extensively on research on modern Greece in recent decades, and on the many perceptive commentaries on recent events in the Greek press. It adopts both an analytical and chronological approach and shows how Greece has both converged with western Europe and remained distinctively Balkan. David Close writes clearly and forcefully, and presents a lively picture of the Greek political system, economic development, social changes and foreign relations. Aimed at readers coming to the subject for the first time, this is a readable and informative introduction to contemporary Greece.

'extremely well sourced, detailed and very readable....masterful work' Nicholas Doumanis, University of South Wales, Australian Journal of Politics and History 'the best intoduction to the post-war economy and politics in Greece in the English language.' Polymeris Voglis, University of Thessaly, History ''The consequences of the Civil War were far-reaching, and David H. Close in his 'Greece since 1945 provides an excellent survey of the political, economic adn social changes in postwwar Greece. Journal of Contemporary History Vol 40 No 2 'His task was to provide a clear, well-informed introduction to the different ways in which Greek society, politics and economics have changed in the post-war years. In his delivery, he has succeeded to an impressive degree.' The Anglo-Hellenic Review, Spring 2005