Communism: National and International addresses the old but controversial question about the extent of uniformity in world communism. Traditional themes like the general party line and the role of prominent personalities are examined from post Cold War perspectives. From political and organisational questions the approach is extended to ideological, cultural and social aspects. Most thoroughly discussed here is the case of Finland, a peculiar country, where communism had deep domestic roots but also strong ties with the Soviets. Fresh insights are offered into Scandinavian countries, Britain, France, and Italy, into the Comintern, and into social democracy.