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Abstract
This article examines two dimensions of the CSU's impact on West German politics. Firstly, it outlines the problems created by the block formation of alliances in the German party system and in particular the strategic nature of the CSU's relationship with the CDU at the federal level. Secondly, it analyses political life at the regional level and evaluates the success of the CSU in integrating the diverse traditions of Bavarian political culture to the point where it occupies a hegemonial position within the Bavarian party system as the ‘state party’ of Bavaria. Finally, consideration is given to the implications of the CSU's dual role—as a quasi‐federal and as a regional party—for the West German party system as a whole.
Notes
Lecturer in German Studies at Bradford University.