Angela Merkel: Europe's Most Influential Leader [Expanded and Updated Edition]

(Paperback)

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The definitive biography of perhaps the most respected political figure in the world - updated to include her final months in office

Matthew Qvortrup's insightful biography of Angela Merkel is essential reading for anyone interested in current affairs, the fate of Europe, or simply the story of a truly remarkable woman. Updated to within a month from when Merkel steps down as German chancellor.

Based on over 14 years of in-depth research, Angela Merkel tells the story of the political titan's astonishing rise from obscurity to become the most influential leader in Europe today. It follows the German Chancellor's journey to prominence and power from a bleak childhood in East Germany, and offers an unprecedented understanding of her inimitable personality and perspective, explaining how her unique qualities have made Merkel perhaps the most respected political figure on the world stage today.

Reviews

'An excellent book... from leader of Germany to leader of Europe, to leader of the west,a clear picture of Merkel emergesSimon Kuper, Financial Times

'Qvortrup's biography reads like an Icelandic saga... a complex life, full of little and greater mysteries'The Times

'A well-written and informative tribute to an extraordinary leader' Booklist

An absorbing, wide-ranging and detailed account of European power struggles over the last 50 yearsMarxist Review

'Qvortrup's portrait is affectionate and detailed'Herald Scotland

'Necessary reading for anyone who wants to broaden his or her perspective on the world today' Kirkus

'A sympathetic, engaging and informative political biography of one of Europe's foremost contemporary leaders'Aviel Roshwald, Professor, Department of History, Georgetown University

'Written in a lively and engaging style, Angela Merkel is a joy to read. It is an extraordinary and incisive book'Arend Lijhart, Research Professor, Emeritus of Political Science, University of California, San Diego

'Qvortrup masterfully weaves together the key episodes of this turbulent life and most unlikely political career'Ludger Helms, Professor, University of Innsbruck and author ofPresidents, Prime Ministers and Chancellors

'In a world full of disappointing national leaders, Matt Qvortrup provides us with an insightful, revealing, vivid reading of a leading woman who tops them all' Amitai Etzioni, author ofThe Active Society

Author Bio

Matthew Qvortrup is currently professor of political science at Coventry University's Centre for Trust, Peace and Social Relations. He was educated at the University of Oxford and the London College of Law and has written forBloomberg Businessweek, The GuardianandThe Times.He also appears as a regular commentator for the BBC, on both radio and television.