The transition from feudalism to capitalism has occurred in many different ways and the variety of forms and methods of this transition is particularly evident in Southern Europe. Focusing on Greater Athens between 1948 and 1981--the crucial period of transition--the author explores the role of social classes in urban development in the cities of Mediterranean Europe. Based on extensive research, the book presents for the first time a history of the Greek urban popular classes during the twentieth century. The author challenges urban growth models based on the Anglo-American experience and convincingly presents her own theoretical framework combining economic and ecological considerations with Gramsci's theories of culture, spontaneity, and informality.