Radical transformations, such as the collapse of communism in eastern Europe and the Soviet Union, are not smooth processes; vague expectations are raised among the people, but rarely correspond with the reality of life after the revolution. Anomie and strain are sources of rebellion and revolution, and may become sources of counterrebellion and counterrevolution. Other reactions to anomie and strain may include resignation, ritualism, emigration, and innovation. The present situation in eastern Europe provides an opportunity to study these different forms of adaptation and the interrelationship between them. The chapter explores the development of crime in a changing eastern Europe, in the context of issues of social inequality and social justice. The author then presents some available information on crime trends in selected countries, and draws preliminary conclusions vis-a-vis their validity and implications.