La genèse du système monétaire international actuel

Abstract

This article analyses the emergence of the present international monetary system. We first go into the establishment of the Bretton Woods system in the 1940s, its functioning in the post-war period and its final breakdown in 1973. We then analyse the ensuing system of floating exchange rates, looking also at the impact of the emerging countries, especially in Asia. We further discuss the interrelationship between the international monetary system and the present financial crisis.