The Academic Career of Walter Hallstein in Germany (1930-1950)

Abstract

This research aims to reveal the academic career of (Walter Hallstein 1901-1982) as an important political figure who played a pivotal role in the history of Germany and Europe in the twentieth century, and was the subject of wide debate among those interested in evaluating it. Some saw it as a unique model in its distinction in German academic and political history, as it combined a strategy and a vision that transcended national borders with organized legal and economic thinking based on values ​​and an effective response to the prevailing political and academic conditions. Meanwhile, others were cautious in evaluating Hallstein during the period of Nazi rule, as they went on to say that he was a strict personality whose nature and way of thinking were compatible with the favorable environment that Germany lived in at that time.

        Regardless of the accuracy or otherwise of these views, Hallstein's proposals contributed significantly to Germany's participation in international initiatives and forums and its integration into European society after World War II. This calls for an objective, academic, and scientific study of Walter Hallstein's career, placing it in its true light and correct historical context without falsification or evasion.

       Consequently, the research came as a modest and serious attempt to fill some of the gap in the study of contemporary German history, as it represented new additions based on scientific material drawn from important sources that included documents, books, letters, academic theses, and encyclopedias directly related to the subject of the research, which ended with Germany’s accession to the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).

       The research includes three axes. The first deals with Walter Hallstein's academic work in Germany (1930-1942), providing a brief overview of the beginnings of his academic career. The second axis deals with Walter Hallstein's return to academic work (1946-1948) and his assumption of the position of President of the University of Frankfurt. The final axis focuses on his academic role when he worked as a visiting professor in the United States of America and chaired the German Committee for UNESCO Activities in 1950.