This book examines the interaction - at national and international level - of the economic, political and social change processes within Europe that are bringing about fundamental transformations in rural areas. Although such changes are experienced at a local level, they are heavily imbued with a national tone, given that European nations possess distinctive visions of their rural areas. These rural identities set limits within which economic, political and social agents can act. Yet these limits are constantly being subjected to strain, particularly with the globalization of economic activity and the strengthening impetus for integrated EC policies.