A magisterial narrative by a brilliant young historian. 'Not only shrewd and comprehensive, but written with a wit and vigour that make it a real joy to read. It deserves to be the standard work on the subject for many years to come' Sir Michael Howard, formerly Regius Professor of Modern History, Oxford A magnificent achievement: a one volume history of the epic changes that have remade the continent in the 57 years since the end of the Second World War. Europe's contemporary history is a remarkable success story in the wake of two catastrophic wars between 1914-1945. But it wasn't easy - 'a struggle'. The Cold War helped that success. Leadership always mattered whether from Churchill, Adenauer, Robert Schuman or Gorbachev. There are still demons - especially those of racism and deep ethnic divides. But the future is promising and we may be on the threshold of a new Golden Age for Europe.