The Impact of the Franco-German Entente

Abstract

The Franco-German entente has a broad scope, treating of cultural, economic, and military matters. Its impact was initially encouraging, for a reconciliation between France and Germany appeared to be a symbol of the victory of the present era over history. Subsequent events have con tributed to a view of it as an effort to turn back history and to play an old game of power politics with a new alignment. De Gaulle has cast himself and France in the role of federator for Europe and tends to regard as intolerable any combination which includes close association with the United States. Adenauer is desirous of assuring his place in history by effect ing a Franco-German reconciliation, and many of his views correspond to a little-Europe policy. There are some indica tions that the Germans might be reluctant allies of the French. German opinion was disturbed by the French veto of British membership in the Common Market and De Gaulle's apparent repulse of the United States. Differences may arise over a German contribution to the development of a French nuclear force independent of NATO. De Gaulle is unenthusiastic about German reunification. The success of Caesaristic, di rected democracy in France may adversely influence the development of democratic institutions in Germany. The role of the individual in international politics seems to have been reasserted through the Franco-German association, yet the urgency of international problems occasioned by nuclear arma ments makes it vital to rise above purely individual considera tions in the broader arena of world politics.—Ed.