The supranational politics of Jean Monnet: Ideas and origins of the European Community

Book abstract:

This book forms part of the Greenwood Press series 'Contributions to the Study of World History'. This study of Jean Monnet attempts to show that Monnet was not just a political founder but also the deal-maker behind many international agreements including the Schumann Plan which paved the way towards political unification in Europe. It is demonstrated that Monnet's political conception of supranational high authorities was formed as early as 1917 and that he brokered many international agreements, which included supranational principles prior to the Schumann plan. The book answers questions such as How did Monnet's 'inspiration' lead Europe closer to unity?; What was the 'constructive idea' that Monnet offered?; What was different about Monnet's Europe to that of previous proponents of European unity?

The book begins with brief biographical details of Monnet's non-political life before examining his role in World War I, The Treaty of Versailles and the League of Nations. This is followed by a look at three episodes in which Monnet tried to secure French sovereignty in World War II. His commitment to liberal democratic principles are shown, as well as his commitment to re-establishing France's sovereign control over its destiny, but not the maintenance of its national sovereignty. A further chapter looks at Monnet's contribution to the economics of World War II before an examination of Monnet's role in the Schumann Plan and in the European Coal and Steel Community Treaty covering the period from 1943-1954. Finally, the reasons behind the failure of certain aspects of Monnet's vision of European political unity are examined.

The book would be suited to students of the history European integration and European Politics.

Frederic J. Fransen is a Fellow at Liberty Fund Inc., an educational foundation.