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.

Introduction: The CDU/CSU and the West German Party System Part 1: The Development of the CDU/CSU 1. The Occupation Period: The Formation of the CDU/CSU (1945-1949) 2. The Period of Adenauer's Ascendancy: The Party in the Shadow of the Chancellor (1949 - 1959) 3. The Decline of Adenauer and the Question of Party Reform (1959-1963) 4. The Period of Transition: The Erhard and Grand Coalition Governments (1963-1969) 5. The CDU/CSU Out of Power: The Reluctant Opposition (1969-1972) 6. The CDU/CSU Adjusts Itself: The Renovated Opposition (1972-1976) Part Two: The Composition and Structure of the CDU/CSU 7. Party Organisation of the CDU 8. Party Membership of the CDU 9. Auxiliary Organisations of the CDU/CSU 10. The Christian Social Union (CSU) 11. Voter Appeal and Election Campaigns of the CDU/CSU. Conclusion: Government or Opposition - A Question of Existential Importance.