German national identity has been constructed over the course of more than three centuries. This book examines the diverse and contested definitions of ""Germaness"" and covers the struggles between the democratic and non-democratic divisions, the role of foreigners and the impact of war on national identity. This comprehensive resource is a fundamental reappraisal of Germany's history from the fresh perspective of the post-Communist, reunified Germany.

""It is overall an interesting, balanced, and very readable account of a fascinating and pertinent topic.""—Central European History

""[Berger's] insightful guide over this slippery but crucial terrain convincingly shows how each different ""Germany"" was dependent on its predecessors and contemporary events.""—CHOICE