Why do states similar in size, resources and capabilities significantly differ in their basic orientations and actions across major domains in foreign policy, security and defense? This book addresses this important question by analyzing the major differences between the foreign policies of France and Germany over extended periods of time.

Ulrich Krotz is a professor at the European University Institute in Italy, where he holds the Chair in International Relations in the Political Science Department and the Robert Schuman Centre for Advanced Studies. He is Director of the Schuman Centre's programme on Europe in the World.

Introduction 1. Historical Domestic Construction 2. Historical Construction, International Relations Theory, and Foreign Policy 3. Out of History and Time: Neighbors with Different Routes and Pathways 4. Elements of French and German Role Constructions, 1958-1998: Core Components, Vocabulary, and Historical Reference Points 5. Impact and Implications (1): Milieu Goals and Alliance Politics 6. Impact and Implications (2): Nuclear Deterrent and Overall Force Structures 7. Impact and Implications (3): Deployment, Armament, Arms 8. Into the New Millennium: Heritages and Change Conclusion