Overview

A true global giant, the European Union is a unique confederation of 15 member-states whose collective economic power is second only to that of the United States. Already encompassing 375 million citizens, the EU will soon grow to include a further 10 states from Eastern Europe and the Mediterranean. This accessible text provides a concise political history of European integration from the end of World War II to 2002. The ""European Project"" raises important questions such as ""How did Europe's states overcome their traditional rivalries and quarrels to build supranational institutions?"", ""What were the economic and geopolitical forces that drove them?"", ""Which individual statesmen contributed most to defining the European project?"" and ""What problems will the EU face as its leaders consider even more advanced forms of political integration?"". All these questions are addressed by this text which offers a clear account of the complex historical process by which Europe's unique polity has been built.

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9780742519138

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Reviews

An indispensable overview... [W]ell written, well balanced, vivid and refreshingly positive, suitable for both students and specialists in European integration, a rewarding and entertaining read... Gilbert's clearly written and wide-ranging work extends not only to political history but also to the history of institutions, economies and monetary developments. Contemporary European History A balanced historical account [and] a very fine piece of scholarship. It deserves to become a standard text. -- Anthony O'Halloran Political Studies Review A highly readable and lucid account of the EU's institutional development from the early postwar years to the present. One of the best general histories of the EU currently available. -- Michael J. Baun, Valdosta State University Mark Gilbert has written a lively and balanced book on an intricate, difficult, and often contentious subject. At a time when European integration is approaching a crucial stage, Surpassing Realism deserves the widest possible readership. -- Philip M. H. Bell, University of Liverpool Mark Gilbert has produced a very accessible and well-written historical account of European integration. Gilbert brings people and events to life in a way that engages both the student and the specialist. This book will be a must-read for anyone interested in the history and evolution of the European Union. -- Alberta M. Sbragia, University of Pittsburgh

A highly readable and lucid account of the EU's institutional development from the early postwar years to the present. One of the best general histories of the EU currently available.--Michael Baun

Author Information

Mark Gilbert is professor of contemporary European history at the Johns Hopkins School for Advanced International Studies in Bologna.

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