Germany and the USA 1871–2021

Germany and the USA 1871–2021 is the first comprehensive look at 150 years of German-American relations. It traces this dramatic story in all its complexity from the founding of the German nation state in 1871 to World War I, the Weimar Republic, Hitler and Nazi Germany, the Cold War and its demise, and the revolution of 9/11. The book also scrutinizes the presidencies of George W. Bush, Barack Obama, and Donald Trump on one side of the Atlantic, as well as the tenure of the German Chancellor Angela Merkel on the other side. This book comprises earlier publications of the author and closes with a new chapter on “Obama, Trump, the decline of an imperial democracy and American-German relations 2009–2021.” “This rich collection of scholarly essays on German-American relations offers the first-ever assessment of this crucial transatlantic partnership over the long term, since the founding of the German nation in 1871, through the turbulent 20th century, and into the Biden Administration. Preeminent historian, Dr. Detlef Junker, draws on decades of deep study to bring us, in lively and lucid prose, his analysis of the changing political relationship that shaped both countries as well as the world. With his signature wit and insight, and delivered in the style of an accomplished journalist, Junker has created a must-read for anyone who wishes to understand the changing relationship of Germany and the United States.” Kirsten Fischer, Professor of History, University of Minnesota “One of Germany’s most eminent contemporary historians has provided us with an enlightening and stimulating account of German–American relations in the 20th and 21st centuries. Selecting from his manifold writings during a long and distinguished career, Detlef Junker gives us an eye-opening account of the many challenges with which German–American relations continue to be confronted in our world of turmoil and instability. Junker’s highly informative book should be essential reading for anyone interested in both the past and the future of America’s relations with Germany—still Europe’s most important political and economic power.” Klaus Larres, Distinguished Professor of History and International Affairs, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill “Here is an authoritative overview of the mostly friendly, at times dramatic relations between the United States and Germany that have shaped much of transatlantic history since 1871. Detlef Junker succeeds in balancing his critical insights into America’s ascent as a world power and its recent challenges with those of Germany’s rise, fall, and rise as a European power. Thoroughly researched and well written, the volume has much to offer to both scholars and students.” Frank Trommler, Professor of German em., University of Pennsylvania