General Editors: Clive Emsley and Gordon Martel The European Union has an important significance for the governance of the member states within it, and a wider impact on external policy developments. It is a unique body whose influence permeates beyond its own borders.In this book, Alasdair Blair provides an up-to-date account of the history of European integration from its emergence at the end of Word War II until the negotiation of the Constitutional Treaty in 2004. Adopting a chronological approach, Blair examines the economic and political factors that have shaped the process of European integration. Written in a clear, jargon-free and accessible style, the book explores: the problem of European integration and expansion the relationship between the European Union and its member states the institutional evolution of the European Union methods of decision making key policies of the European Union the future direction of the European Union Also including key features such as a comprehensive primary documents section, a Glossary of Terms, a Who's Who of key personalities, a detailed chronology, a Bibliography and Guide to Further Reading, this book is an essential guide to understanding the relevance of the European Union in the 21st century. ALASDAIR BLAIR is Jean Monnet Chair and Reader in International Relations at Coventry University.