From the Treaty of Versailles to the Treaty of Maastricht: Conflict, Carnage and Cooperation in Europe, 1918-1993

This book explores European history and politics between the two flawed treaties of Versailles and Maastricht, highlighting the impracticality of Versailles and the establishment of NATO, while also examining the federal model of integration and the decline of the European Union due to Euroscepticism.

Format: Hardback
Length: 260 pages
Publication date: 04 August 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This book delves into the intricate tapestry of European history and politics, shedding light on the profound impact of two landmark treaties: the Treaty of Versailles and the Treaty of Maastricht. As a starting point, it examines the Treaty of Versailles, signed in the aftermath of World War I, with a critical eye. While it was undeniably well-intentioned, driven by a utopian vision, it ultimately proved impractical, reshaping the geopolitical landscape of Europe in ways that laid the foundation for the tragic descent into conflict and barbarism that unfolded during World War II.

The volume then traverses the post-war period, marked by the uneasy stability of a divided continent, characterized by the Cold War. In 1949, the establishment of NATO marked a significant milestone, heralding the era of cooperation and integration within Europe. Under the influence of visionary leaders like Charles de Gaulle, the newly formed European Community emerged as an alliance of sovereign states, with France and Germany taking the helm. This approach fostered economic growth and encouraged other countries to seek membership, ultimately leading to the expansion of the European Union.

However, as time passed, the federal model of integration championed by de Gaulle gradually gave way to a more centralized approach, with member states delegating their sovereignty to the institutions of the European Union. This transformation aimed to create a unified and cohesive European nation-state. The book concludes by analyzing the Treaty of Maastricht, which further entrenched this process, and yet, it is argued, it shares many of the same flaws as the Versailles Treaty. This analysis highlights the gradual decline of the European Union, accompanied by widespread Euroscepticism, as the continent faces mounting challenges and uncertainties.

From the Treaty of Versailles to the Treaty of Maastricht serves as a valuable resource for researchers and students alike, offering a comprehensive examination of the pivotal moments in European history and their enduring consequences. It sheds light on the complex interplay of political, economic, and social forces that have shaped the continent's trajectory, providing insights into the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

Weight: 660g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032198163