This accessible and engaging single-volume history of Serbia covers the full span of history, from the sixth-century Slav migrations up to the present day. It traces key developments surrounding Serb states, institutions, and societies, while incorporating the individual experiences and perspectives of ordinary people.
The book delves into the multifaceted nature of Yugoslavism from its inception in 1918 to its disintegration in the 1990s, highlighting how the concept evolved over time and was interpreted differently by various leaders and social groups. It emphasizes the absence of a unified definition of "Yugoslav," which ultimately contributed to the failure of the Yugoslav state. Scholarly essays examine the interactions among the states and peoples of Yugoslavia, along with the influences of intellectuals, leaders, and both secular and religious institutions.