The global chancellor

More about the book

Helmut Schmidt is often overlooked in modern German history, overshadowed by figures like Bismarck, Adenauer, Brandt, and Kohl. This work highlights Schmidt's vital role in reshaping the global order during the tumultuous 1970s. Through extensive research in his private papers and various archives, the author presents Schmidt as a leader proficient in both economics and security, who skillfully acted as a 'double interpreter' between superpowers during the Cold War's lowest points. Far from being a mere crisis manager, Schmidt's two decades of writings and speeches reveal him as an intellectual statesman comparable to Henry Kissinger. His remarkable achievements include being recognized as the 'world economist,' where he played a key role in establishing the G7 for global economic governance and the European Monetary System during a time of economic uncertainty. As the 'strategist of balance,' he formulated NATO's 'dual-track' response to the Soviet arms buildup, a decision that was crucial in maintaining the Western alliance and easing Cold War tensions in Europe. Schmidt's leadership elevated West Germany to a significant position in global politics, allowing the nation to emerge as an equal among the victor powers of 1945, marking a significant maturation of its international presence.