Franco-German Relations since the End of the Second World War
Ulrich Lappenküper
“What a strange, cruel, beautiful and intense adventure it has been for these two fraternal peoples who needed more than millennium to recognize each other as they are, acknowledge other, unite.”1 Dramatic in tone wholly fitting content, French President Francois Mitterrand’s remarks reminded the Germans of vicissitudes Franco-German “brotherhood” on occasion fortieth anniversary end Second World War. Arising from breakdown Carolingian Kingdom Franks, historical twins Germany France could look back convoluted thousand-year history. After hundreds years which repulsion crossfertilization characterized their relationship, antagonism became determining factor after Franco-Prussian War 1870–71. Instrumentalized by interested groups, resort arms seemed be consequence “hereditary enmity.” catastrophe War, relations had reshaped because fundamental transformations international relations.2 The Old was relegated subordinate role compared new superpowers saw itself confronted bipolar universalism East–West conflict. not content with status minor power. Although