If you ever wondered how Germany managed to become even richer through the European debt crisis. If you ever wondered about Berlin's political and economic strategy behind the refugee crisis. If you ever wondered whether the Federal Republic's shift in foreign policy strategy was a wisely planned move on the international chess board of politics or just a coincidence out of necessity. This book has thoroughly researched answers for you! Based on Edward N. Luttwak’s theory of geo-economics, Andy M. Gracklauer evaluates Germany’s economic, diplomatic, and global political shift from a ‘civil power’ towards a great power through its mighty position in international trade and the resulting financial hegemony. Thereby, his work analyses the Federal Republic’s role as the nation that showed the most initiative and an unknown approach to leadership within its involvements in both the euro and the Ukraine crisis. As a consequence, successfully managing the two extreme situations in Europe undoubtedly rewarded Germany with the position of a regional – some might even argue a global – financial and diplomatic hegemon.