Christian Democracy in Western Germany: The CDU/CSU in Government and Opposition, 1945-1976

by Geoffrey Pridham

This important study analyses the developoment of the CDU/CSU as a political force in West Germany from the Second World War to the late 1970s, with special reference to its role both in Government (1949-69) and Opposition (1969-76) and considers how it was instrumental in the formulation of governmental policies. The first part of the book looks at the development of the CDU/CSU. The second part focuses on its composition and structure and considers such aspects as its organisation, membership, auxiliary organisations and electoral appeal and campaigns. A separate chapter deals with the CSU’s relationship with the CDU, its leadership and its organisation.

371 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1977

About the author

Professor Geoffrey Pridham is Emeritus Professor and a Senior Research Fellow in Sociology, Politics and International Studies at the University of Bristol, England.