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.

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.

Analyzes the underlying basis for state participation in cooperative international structures.

No detailed description available for "Continental Plans for European Union 1939-1945".

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.