The Moselle has been one of the main arteries of European Communication and transportation for centuries. The Romans used it as a main thoroughfare from southern to northern Europe and also began the improvements to its navigation that have continued intermittently through the industrial revolution to the present day. Professor Cermakian focuses on the historical, political, and geographical factors in the use and canalization of this international river – a focus that is derived from his interest in the details of standardizing transport networks and policy as an important part of 'European integration,' which he sees both as a long historical movement and as a present endeavour under EEC. The book offers a history of the political economy of an important river, a symbol for many of the spirit of Europe.

(University of Toronto Department of Geography Research Publications 14)

Jean Cermakian is an associate professor of Humanities, Division of Geography and the previous director of the Module de GÉographie of the UniversitÉ du QuÉbec, Trois-RiviÈres.