The 2008 Ossetia War underlined the fact that Georgia is caught in a political struggle between East and West. Per Gahrton analyzes American and Russian policy towards the country and provides a firsthand account of the Rose Revolution of 2003, its origin and aftermath. The book traces the increasing US involvement in Georgia and the Russian reaction of anger, sanctions and, eventually, invasion. Gahrton's analysis is based on interviews with key politicians and his experience as the rapporteur of the European Parliament on South Caucasus. At center stage is the growing opposition against authoritarian aspects of President Mikheil Saakashvili's regime and the mysterious death of Prime Minister Zhvania in 2005. The book also asks if the Rose Revolution was a conspiracy or a genuine popular uprising. This truly authoritative account of Georgia is a must for students studying international relations in the aftermath of The Cold War.

List of Photos List of Acronyms Preface Map of Georgia 1. The geopolitical setting -- a renewed Great Game 2. Puppet Or buffer? 3. A history of failed independence 4. The dissolution of the Soviet Union -- blessing or disaster? 5. The break-away regions -- Russian stooges or freedom seekers? 6. Gamsakhurdia -- the tactical fanatic 7. Shevardnadze - the failed saviour 8. Kmara - enough! The Rose Revolution. 9. The revolutionary honeymoon 10. The death of Zhvania - the revolution loses its brain 11. Saakashvili - the failed liberator 12. The Ossetia War 2008 - a conspiracy, but by whom? 13. After The War - renewed political clashes 14. Georgia And Russia - the prodigal son and the Big Brother 15. Georgia's future - Caucasian, European and nonaligned Appendix I: List of prominent figures Appendix II: Acronyms and Abbreviations Bibliography Index