Book: Disgrace Abounding

Introduction
"Disgrace Abounding" is a 1939 book by British journalist Douglas Reed, who was a foreign reporter for The Times in Central Europe in the 1930s. The book is a detailed and vivid account of the collapse of old Europe and the increase of Adolf Hitler and National Socialism in Germany. Reed argues that the fall of the Czechoslovak state was a direct result of the Western powers' policy of appeasement and their failure to acknowledge the threat positioned by Hitler. The book paints a dark and cynical image of the world on the edge of war, with Reed caution of the threats of a widespread and aggressive nationalism, driven by the fanaticism of dictators like Hitler.

Setting the Scene
The book starts with Reed's description of the dynamic and cosmopolitan pre-war Central European society, which was identified by intellectual vigor and cultural diversity. However, this idyllic scene was threatened by the growing political discontent, as the democratically-elected federal governments failed to resolve the economic and social obstacles of the era. The collapse of the European economies due to the Great Depression led to serious social departments and bitterness, developing fertile ground for the increase of extremist ideologies.

Rise of Hitler and the Nazis
Reed offers a detailed account of the increase of the Nazis and their political tactics, which he witnessed first-hand. The core of the Nazi ideology was nationalism, the belief in the supremacy of the German race, and a desire to dominate Europe. However, Reed highlights the charismatic appeal of Hitler, who was able to enthrall the masses with his rhetoric and ruthless drive to power, which eventually resulted in the Nazi seizure of power in 1933.

The facility of the totalitarian Nazi regime in Germany caused the expansion of similar ideologies in other European nations, as Hitler's political machinations and military aggression intentionally stirred up nationalist beliefs. Reed warns of the widespread corruption and ethical decay that accompanied the increase of these harmful ideologies.

The Failure of the Western Powers
According to Reed, the origin of the mayhem in Europe was the policy of appeasement pursued by the Western powers, particularly the United Kingdom and France, which permitted the rise of Nazi Germany. Afraid of triggering another world war, the Western countries sought to appease Hitler through diplomatic ways, such as the Munich Agreement in 1938. This policy culminated in the betrayal of Czechoslovakia, which was dismembered and annexed by Germany.

Reed emphasizes that the Western powers stopped working to recognize the real nature of Hitler and the National Socialists, who were expansionist and despotic. The appeasement not only provided Hitler greater power but likewise enhanced the belief in the invincibility of Nazi regime.

Conclusion: Disgrace Abounding
The essential message of the book is the devastating repercussions of ethical corruption and the failure to challenge evil. Reed argues that Europe's descent into chaos and destruction was the outcome of the collapse of ethical and democratic principles, which enabled the rise of totalitarians like Hitler. The book's title, "Disgrace Abounding", shows Reed's sense of embarassment at the deterioration of European society and the betrayal of its worths.

Although written in 1939, the book stays appropriate today, offering a sobering lesson about the risks of ignoring risks to democracy and failing to support moral concepts. It provides a plain pointer of the dreadful effects that can take place when societies allow the untreated rise of extremism and dictatorial regimes.