Pioneers of European Integration and Peace 1945-1963
A Brief History with Documents
This concise historical summary of the critical early years of European integration contains a rich collection of documents illustrating that history. It demonstrates that after the disaster of the Second World War, far-sighted Western European statesmen worked together to achieve what had eluded their predecessors after the First World War – a lasting peace. These visionary leaders voluntarily agreed to integrate their economies gradually in order to foster reconciliation. This led to the creation of the European Economic Community (EEC) in 1957 and rapprochement between the long-time enemies, France and Germany, and subsequently to The Treaty of Friendship and Reconciliation in 1963. These two treaties helped lay the foundation for the European Union (EU) in 1992 which has become an important international actor in promoting ethnic reconciliation and peace in Europe. This book is an excellent resource for those interested in European history and European integration, conflict resolution, international organizations, and peace studies.
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Amazon or Barnes & NobleReviewers Comments about Pioneers of European Integration and Peace
“The introduction provides one of the most concise and balanced histories of European integration that I have ever read. It draws on leading and up-to-date scholarship and provides essential information and analysis for students using general EU texts in undergraduate courses.” - Desmond Dinan, Jean Monnet Professor, George Mason University
“This wonderful collection of relevant documents, accompanied by a concise historical overview, provides a ‘real world’ look at the leaders who shaped that history. This book will be invaluable for both experts and students interested in the historical foundations of the European Union.” – Alberta Sbragia, Director, European Union Center of Excellence, University of Pittsburgh