Reunification in West German Party Politics From Westbindung to Ostpolitik

Combining new thinking in International Relations theory with original historical research, Kleuters explores the struggle between Christian Democrats and Social Democrats on the subject of German reunification, from Westbindung to Ostpolitik. The result is a gripping narrative focussing on theoretical relevance in foreign policy decisions-making.

Drawing on extensive archival research and the most recent scholarship, and linking diplomacy to domestic politics, Joost Kleuters has developed a clear and incisive analysis of the Federal Republic of Germany's complicated but ultimately successful integration into the postwar international system that should be useful to both specialists and students.

Ronald J. Granieri, Historical Office, US Department of Defense.

Exactly 40 years after the conclusion of the Eastern Treaties that implemented Ostpolitik, this book succeeds in showing the continuing relevance of the study of the German Question to both historical research and theory formation on international politics. Kleuters' book is a valuable addition to the existing body of literature.

Tilman Mayer, University of Bonn and Chairman of the German Studies Society (Gesellschaft für Deutschlandforschung) in Berlin

Autorentext
JOOST KLEUTERS was born in Eindhoven (The Netherlands). His research interests and publications concern Foreign Policy Analysis, diplomatic history, transatlantic relations and European politics. He lives and works in Germany.

Inhalt
Contents Acknowledgements Introduction Between Continuity and Change Westbindung instead of Wiedervereinigung Reunification Policy under Pressure: Taking the Offensive The Christian Democrats Stick, the Social Democrats Swing A Tale of Three Cities: Bonn, Berlin and Washington Adenauer's Long Shadow Ostpolitik on Hold Crossing the Rubicon: Brandt's Ostpolitik Conclusions Sources and Literature