Europe since 1980

Abstract:
This book tells the dramatic story of the economic, social, political, and cultural transformation of Europe during the transition from the Cold War to the European Union. Ivan Berend charts, in particular, the overwhelming impact of the collapse of communism on every aspect of European life. Europe became safer and more united, and Central and Eastern Europe started on the difficult road to economic modernization.

However, the western half of Europe also changed. European integration gained momentum. The single market and the common currency were introduced, and the Union enlarged from nine to twenty-seven countries.

This period also saw a revolution in information and communication technology, the increasing impact of globalization and the radical restructuring of the political system.

The book explores the impact of all of these changes as well as the new challenges posed by the economic crisis of 2008–9 and asks which way now for Europe?

The book will appeal to students of the European Union, post-war and contemporary Europe, European political economy, and the economics of contemporary Europe.

Contents:
1. Europe approaches the 1980s: the dual crises (1968–1980)
2. The end of 'Two Europes' and European integration
3. The new cultural and political setting
4. The economic response to globalization. Recovery and growth. The integration of eastern and western Europe
5. Dramatic demographic and social changes, consumerism and the welfare state
Epilogue. Quo vadis Europa?