Czechoslovakia, at the strategic center of Europe's heartland, first underwent the famous 'velvet' revolution and subsequently split into two. Its eventual destiny is probably a leading indicator of the direction the 21st century will take. If the post-Cold War era has even the slightest chance to bring with it the lasting peace which so completely evaded the 20th century, the countries of the former Eastern Europe must become full and equal partners with the former Western Countries. Yet, the former Western countries have been generally less than enthusiastic about this idea so far. Current Economics and Politics of (ex-) Czechoslovakia details the crunching economic and political forces exploding in the center of Europe. The contributors present in-depth analyses which constitute essential reading.