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Topic 2: Moves towards European Unity (i) Why was there support for European unity after 1945? (ii) Write an account of the growth of the European Union between 1957 and 1992. - Junior Cycle History - Question 2 - 2011
Question 2
Topic 2: Moves towards European Unity (i) Why was there support for European unity after 1945? (ii) Write an account of the growth of the European Union between ... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Topic 2: Moves towards European Unity (i) Why was there support for European unity after 1945? (ii) Write an account of the growth of the European Union between 1957 and 1992. - Junior Cycle History - Question 2 - 2011
Step 1
Why was there support for European unity after 1945?
Answer
After 1945, support for European unity emerged due to several key factors:
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Economic Growth: The establishment of the common market aimed to boost economic growth among European nations. Countries believed that collaboration would enhance trade, allowing them to recover from the devastation of World War II and to rebuild their economies more effectively.
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Prevention of War: There was a strong desire to prevent another European war. The catastrophic impacts of both World Wars led many leaders to understand that lasting peace necessitated closer cooperation among European nations. A united Europe would create a framework for resolving conflicts through diplomacy rather than warfare.
These factors reflected a collective aspiration to not only achieve economic recovery but also to ensure political stability and peace in the region.
Step 2
Write an account of the growth of the European Union between 1957 and 1992.
Answer
The growth of the European Union (EU) from 1957 to 1992 can be divided into several significant phases:
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Formation of the EEC (1957): The Treaty of Rome, signed in 1957, established the European Economic Community (EEC), fostering economic integration. This treaty aimed at creating a common market and was a cornerstone for future collaboration.
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Expansion of Membership: Over the decades, the EEC expanded to include more member countries. Notably, the addition of the UK, Ireland, and Denmark in 1973 marked a significant step towards broader European integration.
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Single European Act (1986): This act aimed to complete the single market by 1992, reducing barriers to trade and movement across member states. It was pivotal in facilitating economic cooperation and enhancing the powers of the EEC.
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Treaty of Maastricht (1991): Signed in 1991 and effective from 1993, this treaty laid the foundations for the modern EU, introducing the concept of a political union, enhancing cooperation in various sectors, and setting the stage for the adoption of a single currency.
By 1992, the EU was not only an economic entity but also a political one, signifying a significant shift towards deeper integration across Europe.