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"Strong empires are all similar, but unfortunate countries have their own misfortunes." Different ethnic groups living in Southeast Europe undoubtedly have many common historical experiences, but they have never been able to find a unified identity. A unique diversity has developed here, and this quality is precisely the result of thousands of years of cross-regional exchanges. Marie-Janina Chalic chooses to narrate the history of Southeast Europe from the unconventional perspective of world interdependence, because many historical processes cannot be understood at all if we think only within the framework of closed regions and countries. By examining cross-border interactions, connections, and experiences, interspersed with micro-narratives that are highly humane and graphic, Chalik presents a new, multi-faceted picture that is completely different from the stereotype of the backward, ever-violent "European Other" in Southeastern Europe. From this, it is not difficult for readers to discover that the story of this land is far richer and more vivid than what traditional historical narratives present.