While the first half of the 20th century was characterized by total war, the second half witnessed, at least in the Western world, a massive expansion of the modern welfare state. A growing share of the population was covered by ever more generous systems of social protection that dramatically...

"In public debate and academic writings the American and European welfare states are often portrayed as inhabiting completely different welfare regimes. However, if we take a closer look at the historical development of the European welfare state we find that American philanthropic bodies such...