This book aims to broaden readers' understanding of the issues now facing the European Union by explaining the motivation underpinning the process of integration in Western Europe after 1945. The contributors discuss: - the part played by the Federal Republic of Germany; - the role of ideas and political movements in stimulating policy; - the economic interest of West Germany and West German business; and - the strategic aspects of Germany's policy. Also included is a German view of French and British attitudes toward a unified Europe and a discussion of the social history of integration.
Author Biography
Clemens Wurm Professor of West European History,Humboldt-University of Berlin
Reviews
'... [a] useful and often stimulating book.' H-Net '... contains a genuinely original, stimulating and intricate contribution by Gustav Schmidt.' Bulletin of the German Historical Institute 'Berg Publishers has built up the most impressive list of books on modern Germany in English. [...] In line with Berg's established tradition, the series provides English readers with invaluable access to the work of leading German scholars and to current debates on modern German history' Journal of Area Studies "...(a) valuable contribution (...) to the study of the first, post-Second World War phase of European integration." The International History Review "...a worthwhile contribution to empirical research on the subject." German Politics "...(a) stimulating collection of essays... (...) These essays provide a salutary reminder that Germany has been at the centre of the intergration process from the start." JES