The Birth of the Euro

“Professor Otmar Issing was an exceptional and decisive actor in making the euro, first as the chief economist and member of the Directorate of the Bundesbank and then as the chief economist and member of the Executive Board of the European Central Bank. His book is remarkable for his accuracy, lucidity and pertinence. It gives the reader the unique perspective of a major decision-maker, who is both a living symbol of the successful transition from the national currencies to the euro and a privileged witness of those historic events.”
Jean-Claude Trichet, President of the European Central Bank

“It is hard to think of a single monetary event more important than the creation of European Monetary Union. Otmar Issing, the intellectual force behind the first decade of the European Central Bank, has written a brilliant account of the debates and struggles behind the birth of the Euro, an event which has reshaped the world monetary order.”
Mervyn A.King, Governor Bank of England

“No one can tell the story of the birth of the Euro better than Otmar Issing. In this book, he shares the financial insights of an innovative economist and the practical wisdom of a seasoned leader. The book is exceptionally well written, laced with touching personal stories. There is no better way to understand the amazing birth of the Euro than to read this book.”
Prof. John B.Taylor, Stanford University

“Just on time for the 10th anniversary of European Monetary Union, Otmar Issing brilliantly strikes the balance of achievements and future challenges of the Euro. Strongly recommended reading – especially for Europe`s leaders and politicians who should take his admonitions seriously.”
Axel Weber, President of Deutsche Bundesbank

“In this superb account, Otmar Issing, architect of the European Central Bank´s monetary policy, explains the successful launch of the most remarkable experiment in monetary history. Both an insider and a noted academic, nobody is better equipped than Dr. Issing to rid the world of its many mistaken beliefs about the world´s second most important currency.”
Martin Wolf, Financial Times

“As one who was a participant at the birth of the euro and a founding member of the executive board of the European Central Bank (ECB), Issing... has a story to tell that is both engaging and very important.... Given the economic situation today and the policy positions of the US, EU, and other major nations, Issing's observations with regard to the ECB for action, and what he considers proper action, will be of interest to all readers.... Highly recommended.”
Choice