Pacts and Alliances in History: Diplomatic Strategy and the Politics of Coalitions

Agreements between nations are the fundamental framework for the ordering of international affairs; and their successes and failures have led to some of the great turning points in modern history. A unique collaboration by historians and political scientists, Pacts and Alliances in History explores some of the fundamental questions of diplomacy: what are the common denominators shared by successful alliances? Why do pacts and alliances disintegrate? And is the eventual demise of pacts and alliances inevitable? Eleven empirical case-studies across five continents, including three chapters devoted to US alliances around the world, are used to illustrate entirely new diplomatic concepts and political theories – arguing for a more nuanced understanding of how agreements work. This study will be important reading for the next generation of policymakers and will become the starting point for the future debate on coalitions, multi-lateral organizations, and diplomacy in History and International Relations.