Roumania Past and Present   By: James Samuelson (1829-)

Roumania Past and Present by James Samuelson is an impressive and thought-provoking exploration of a country that often remains shrouded in mystery for many readers. The author's comprehensive research and nuanced understanding of Romanian history and culture make this book a valuable resource for anyone interested in gaining a deeper understanding of the country.

One of the strengths of the book is Samuelson's ability to weave together a complex narrative that spans different historical periods. From ancient Dacia to the tumultuous events of the twentieth century, the author provides a detailed account of Romania's past that both educates and captivates the reader. By delving into various aspects of Romanian society, including politics, religion, and art, Samuelson offers a comprehensive overview that allows readers to appreciate the multifaceted nature of the country's history.

The author's writing style is engaging and accessible, making the content enjoyable to read. Samuelson effortlessly combines historical facts with anecdotes and personal observations, giving the book a human touch. Readers will find themselves easily immersed in the pages as he tells the story of Romania, which is often filled with fascinating characters and surprising twists.

Moreover, Samuelson goes beyond simply recounting the past and delves into the present-day realities of Romania. By examining the country's current political and social landscape, he provides valuable insight into the challenges and opportunities facing modern Romania. This contemporary perspective adds depth to the book and enhances its relevance to today's readers.

Another commendable aspect of the book is the inclusion of numerous illustrations and photographs that complement the text. These visuals not only add visual appeal but also provide a visual representation of the places and people discussed in the book. This attention to detail enhances the reader's understanding and appreciation of Romanian history and culture.

Although the book covers a vast amount of information, some readers may find certain sections to be slightly dense. The sheer volume of historical events, names, and dates included could be overwhelming for readers with limited knowledge of Romanian history. However, Samuelson's clear and concise writing helps mitigate this potential issue, making the content accessible even to those less familiar with the subject matter.

In conclusion, Roumania Past and Present by James Samuelson is an enlightening and captivating exploration of Romania's rich history and culture. Samuelson's meticulous research and engaging writing style make this book a valuable resource for both scholars and general readers alike. By combining a comprehensive historical account with a modern perspective, the author successfully creates a narrative that is both informative and enjoyable. Whether one is familiar with Romanian history or not, this book offers a fascinating journey through the past and present of a country deserving of greater recognition.

First Page:

Only about nine years since Consul General Green, the British representative there, reported to his Government as follows: 'Ignorance seems to extend even to the geographical position of Bucharest. It is not surprising that letters directed to the Roumanian capital should sometimes travel to India in search of Bokhara, but there can be no excuse for the issue of a writ of summons by one of the superior law courts of the British metropolis, directed to Bucharest in the Kingdom of Egypt, as I have known to happen.' The reader may perhaps attribute such mistakes as these to our insular ignorance of geography, or to the fact that the proverbial blindness of justice prevented her from consulting the map before issuing her process; but the fact remains, that notwithstanding the occurrence of a great war subsequent to the date above specified, which completely changed the map of Europe, wherein Roumania took a very prominent part and England assisted at the settlement, there are few intelligent readers in this country who could say off hand where precisely Roumania is situated... Continue reading book >>