The Origins And Development Of European Integration

The authors seek to convey the richness of the debate, the sense of triumph and despair, and the success and failures which have marked efforts to unite Europe.

The new edition of this accessible introduction to the history of the European Union (EU) has been fully revised and updated to reflect the significant changes within the EU over the past decade. The book is ideal introductory reading for those new to the study of the EU who want a concise and up-to-date account of the political and economic development of the EU.

The foundation of the European Union was one of the most important historical events in the second half of the 20th century. In order to fully appreciate the modern state of the EU, it is crucial to understand the history of European integration. This accessible overview differs from other studies in its focus on the major roles played by both the United States and European multinational corporations in the development of the European Union. Chronologically written and drawing on new findings from two major archives (the archives of the US State Department and Archive of European Integration), this book sheds crucial new light on the integration process. The History of European Integration offers a major contribution to our understanding of Europe’s postwar history, and will be essential reading for any student of postwar European History, Contemporary History, European Politics and European Studies.

Focusing not just on the great events but on the smaller incremental developments too, this work gives an in-depth look at developments in European Union history.

The contributors to this volume, all leading specialists in the field of EU studies, examine the trajectory of the EU and draw on the theoretical tools of historical institutionalism to assess the central political challenges facing the EU.

This friendly, concise and up-to-date introduction to the European Union is essential reading for those new to the study of Europe. It shows students clearly why the European Union is so important for an understanding of the politics of the second half of the twentieth century. Martin Dedman: * provides a general history of European unity and integration from 1945-1995 * provides an essential clarification of terms and definitions * outlines the three major schools of thought regarding the causes of European integration * considers the economic and political reasons for establishing supranational organisations * discusses other European organisations created since 1945 * traces all the key events since 1945 including the Maastricht Treaty and the movement towards European Economic and Monetary Union.

An accessible yet thorough look at how historians and social scientists have thought and written about the history of the present-day European Union, and the main themes of their research and debates. Essential reading for historians of Europe and social scientists of the European Union alike.