Marc Trachtenberg Livres

The steadfast alliance between America and Europe represents one of the most important and complex political relationships in the modern world. But with the end of the Cold War, America and Europe seem to be drifting apart. In Between Empire and Alliance, scholars from both sides of the Atlantic examine the most intense phase of the Cold War―the quarter century from 1950 to 1974―to explore the ever-changing relationship between the United States and Europe. At the height of the Cold War, America took on the role of Europe's great protector, but rather than create a sense of safety for the Europeans, this dependence on an outside power for protection became the source of great anxiety in Europe. Using archival documents that have only recently become available, the contributors consider the political, social, and economic implications of specific American policies on European nations and, more importantly, the role of American support in the drive for European unification. Providing a picture of U.S.-European relations both during the Cold War and today, Between Empire and Alliance sheds new light on the future of America and Europe.

The book delves into the complexities of the Cold War, challenging the oversimplified view of it as merely a two-sided conflict between America and Russia. Trachtenberg explores the paradox of both nations accepting the European status quo while simultaneously generating tensions that could have escalated into nuclear catastrophe. Drawing on nearly two decades of research, the author seeks to unravel this intricate historical puzzle, offering fresh insights into the underlying dynamics of the era.

A practical guide to the historical study of international politics, this book focuses on the basics of historical research on how to use original sources, analyze and interpret historical works, and actually write a work of history. It includes two appendixes that provide important sources and examples relevant to this area.

The book offers significant insights into the interplay between international history and international relations theory, emphasizing their interconnectedness. Marc Trachtenberg presents compelling narratives that illustrate how scholars must consider both fields to fully understand global dynamics. It serves as a critical resource for those interested in the complexities of the Cold War and its aftermath, highlighting the importance of integrating historical context with theoretical frameworks in the study of international relations.

The book presents a compelling exploration of the interconnectedness of international history and international relations theory. Through significant insights and engaging narratives, it emphasizes the necessity for scholars to consider both fields in tandem. The work showcases Marc Trachtenberg's expertise as a leading international historian, offering valuable perspectives on the Cold War and its aftermath.

Im Februar 1990 versicherte US-Außenminister James Baker dem sowjetischen Staatschef Michail Gorbatschow, dass sich der Zuständigkeitsbereich der Nordatlantikpakt-Organisation „keinen Zentimeter nach Osten“ ausdehnen würde, und warb damit um dessen Zustimmung für den Verbleib des wiedervereinigten Deutschlands in der NATO. Offensichtlich kam es anders. Im Nachhinein hieß es von westlichen Offiziellen, diese Aussage habe sich nur auf Ostdeutschland bezogen, keinesweges auf Osteuropa – und überhaupt: eine rechtlich bindende Vereinbarung wurde nie geschlossen! Der Politikwissenschaftler und Historiker Marc Trachtenberg hinterfragt diese Argumente, analysiert den Kontext, in dem solche Zusicherungen getroffen wurden und diskutiert, ob „nicht rechtlich bindend“ gleichzusetzen ist mit „überhaupt nicht bindend“.