Against the backdrop of the current Euro and refugee crises, this book provides a well-founded and focused overview of the history and present of European integration - from Briand and Monnet as visionaries to the Brexit negotiations today. The authors analyze the tension between the preservation of national interests and European solidarity, between deepening integration and the admission of new member states. For each phase in the history of the EU, the volume explains the political-theoretical foundations and the historical events. With a sober assessment of the advantages and disadvantages of transferring power to Brussels, it avoids the current polarizing debate and offers valuable insights into the functioning of today’s EU as well as its historical development. Co-authors: Robin de Bruin, Carla Hoetink, Carlo.