On Sunday, November 2, 2008, the Canadian Macedonian Historical Society hosted a book launch for the much anticipated, Macedonia and the Macedonians by Professor Andrew Rossos. It was held at Victoria College’s Alumni Room, which is part of the University of Toronto. Members of the Society, colleagues of Professor Rossos and other interested parties were invited. The event was made possible by the principal of Victoria College who was kind enough to offer the room in honour of Dr. Rossos. It was an ideal venue for the book launch. In addition to snacks and beverages provided by the College, delicious zelnitsi prepared by Mary Rossos, Dr. Rossos’ sister-in-law, and Paul Thomas, the Society’s treasurer were served. We could not have a book launch about a history book of Macedonia without presenting our food!

There were more than at least fifty people in attendance, including some of Dr. Rossos’ colleagues. Books, signed by Professor Rossos, were available for sale. But more importantly, Andrew Rossos spoke to a fascinated audience about the difficulties he faced in locating the information in various cities such as Sofia, Athens and Skopje in Europe and to what lengths he had to go to make sure that his research was thorough. One such example was that his permission to peruse archival material was withdrawn after two weeks of research in Sofia.

Virginia Evans introducing Professor Rossos

They say that “history has been written by the victor”. However, this time, Dr. Rossos, who himself was a child refugee from Aegean Macedonia, and who spent his early years in Czechoslovakia (now the Czech Republic) made it his project and decided to take on the task of writing our history. Members of the Society are grateful for the meticulous approach and passion that he brought to the project.

Professor Andrew Rossos

This is a book for those who have not had the opportunity or even the volition to read about Macedonian history before. This work is now available for those who want to find some answers, as well as for those scholars who want a comprehensive read about a very complex subject. A very thorough picture of how Macedonians, as a people, became more aware of their nationalism through many avenues. It gives an overall picture of where we were and why. Because of the influence of neighbouring countries with their own nationalistic agendas, there has been so much confusion about why we are where we are now. Professor Rossos writes about the transitions Macedonia has had to endure, and still endures.

Macedonia and the Macedonians was written by “nashe” academic and with the tenacity of a Macedonian. It is important to recognize our accomplishments. However, sometimes we are reluctant to honor our own. When a book is written by a professor at the Department of History, University of Toronto and especially the reluctant Dr. Andrew Rossos, we need to make a fuss.

You can purchase a soft cover version of the book through the website and click on BOOKS. Please check it out.
Virginia Evans