The Länder and German federalism

Book abstract:

Ever since the Emperor Charlemagne and perhaps before, Germany has been a major player in the affairs of Europe. However, such questions as 'Who is a German?' and 'Where is Germany?' have also been asked throughout the centuries. That may be a product of the Germanic appetite for expansion over time, but may also indicate the general lack of scholarly literature on the German state, its constituents parts and constitution.
This book recognises the importance of Germany and its contribution to federal politics in Europe and elsewhere, and aims to bring a better understanding of German politics and institutions to a wider audience. The author explores the major features of German federalism, including its origins and development, particularly since the founding of the Federal Republic of Germany in 1949. Chapters are given over to discussion of how the Länder function, both in respect of administration and finance and their place in the constitutional framework of the country. The role of the German Land parliaments are explored and the interaction of parties and politics in the Länder with the Bundesrat and the legislative process in Germany and Europe.
The work will interest students, scholars and researchers engaged in the fields of European and Germanic Studies, federalism and comparative politics.
Arthur Gunlicks is a professor of political science and chair of the department at the University of Richmond, Virginia, USA.