This book compares the cross-border integration of infrastructures in Europe such as post, telecommunication and transportation in the 19th century and the period following the Second World War. In addition to providing a unique perspective on the development of cross-border infrastructures and the international regimes regulating them, it offers the first systematic comparison of a variety of infrastructure sectors, identifies general developmental trends and supplies theoretical explanations. In this regard, integration is defined as international standardization, network building and the establishment of international organizations to regulate cross-border infrastructures.

Gerold Ambrosius is retired Professor in economic and social history; studies in economics and political science, 1977 doctorate and 1983 habilitation; (visiting) professor at different German universities and abroad; main fields of research: economic history and institutional economics, history of public economy and public services, European economic history and integration.

Christian Henrich-Frankeis PD in economic and social history at the University of Siegen, studies in history and social sciences, 2005 doctorate and 2010 habilitation; main fields of research: international history, European integration, history of communications.

Introduction, State of the Art and Definitions.- Infrastructural Integration in the 19th Century.- Infrastructural Integration in the 20th Century.- Relationship Between Organisational Structures, Political Processes and Agreed Standards.- Political and Socio-economic Theories and International Integration Infrastructures.- Conclusion.- Glossary.- Literature.