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Back to topTo Besiege a City: Leningrad 1941–42 (Hardcover)
Description
A ground-breaking history of one of the greatest ever sieges. Masterfully brought to life by a leading expert using original Russian and German source material.
'[An] excellent account.' - Richard Overy, The Telegraph
Shortlisted for the Military History Matters Book of the Year Award 2024
This new history of the first two years of this crucial battle for the heart and soul of Russia is the first in over a decade and also the first to look comprehensively at the wider military strategies of both sides.
At a huge cost, the Red Army and the civilian population of Leningrad ultimately endured a bitter 900-day siege, struggling against constant bombing, shelling, and starvation. Throughout the siege, Soviet forces tried to break the German lines and restore contact with the garrison. To Besiege a City charts the first of these offensives which began in January 1942 and was followed by repeated assaults. Acclaimed Eastern Front historian Prit Buttar details how although the Red Army suffered huge casualties in the swampy and forested terrain, the German infantry divisions were also steadily eroded. Indeed, by keeping control of parts of the shores of Lake Ladoga, the Soviet Union was able to sustain Leningrad through the winters of the siege via the 'road of life', constructed across the frozen lake. This epic history details the dramatic race to create the road across the ice and first-hand accounts from both Soviet and German soldiers, many never previously translated, bring the horrific series of battles and assaults to life.
Ultimately the determination of the defenders to hold out during this first phase of the siege and the desperate attempts to break it became a hugely significant part of Russian wartime history. The echoes of the battle persist to this day helping to define both a country and its politics. There is no better time to fully understand this history and To Besiege a City is the most comprehensive account to date.
About the Author
Prit Buttar studied medicine at Oxford and London before joining the British Army as a doctor. After leaving the army, he worked as a GP, first near Bristol and then in Abingdon, Oxfordshire. He is extensively involved in medical politics, both at local and national level, and served on the GPs' Committee of the British Medical Association. He has appeared on national TV and radio, speaking on a variety of medical issues. He contributes regularly to the medical press.
An established expert on the Eastern Front in 20th-century military history, his previous books include the critically acclaimed Battleground Prussia: The Assault on Germany's Eastern Front 1944–45 (Osprey 2010) and Between Giants: The Battle for the Baltics in World War II (Osprey 2013) and a definitive four-part series on the Eastern Front in World War I which concluded with The Splintered Empires: The Eastern Front 1917–21 (2017). He now lives in Kirkcudbright in Scotland.
Praise For…
“[An] excellent account.” —Richard Overy, The Telegraph
“This is another masterly account by this excellent Osprey author, covering the first year of the siege of Leningrad.” —Miniature Wargames
“Buttar's meticulous and even-handed research leaves no stone unturned.” —History of War
“Brings to life a dark chapter of World War II history that ought to never be forgotten.” —Morning Star
“This will surely become the definitive reference work on the Siege of Leningrad.” —Classic Military Vehicle
“The level of detail in this work reveals the depth of research which went into its creation… engaging and informative work, compelling ... The narrative skillfully moves between the actions and decisions of high-ranking generals and the battlefield experiences of private soldiers struggling to survive the next fight... the narrative is logical and absorbing.” —WWII History Magazine
“When it comes to the World War II history of the Eastern Front, military historians worldwide acknowledge there is no greater creditable writer than Osprey author Prit Buttar…he creates a masterful account of the first year of the relentless, horrible siege of once Europe's greatest, most beautiful city.” —ARGunners
“"To Besiege a City" is not only a captivating read but also a haunting reminder of the horrors of war and the strength of the human spirit. Prit Buttar's comprehensive research, engaging storytelling, and balanced perspective make this book an essential addition to the library of anyone interested in World War II history. It stands as a powerful tribute to the people who endured unimaginable suffering and a testament to their indomitable will to survive. Highly Recommended.” —AMPS
“There is no better time to fully understand this history and To Besiege a City is the most comprehensive account to date.” —ARMORAMA
“To Besiege a City is just another example of what author Prit Buttar does so well. He has written a history of the siege of Leningrad which will satisfy both military history buffs and people looking for a great story.…A great book of military history.” —History Nerds United
“An in-depth military analysis of the Siege of Leningrad that homes in on the German and Russian weaponry and strategies that led to the lengthy stalemate.” —Library Journal