Why was the EU formed?

Answer 1

Some of the reasons for the establishment of the European Union (EU)

Already in the 1920s some politicians (such as Briand and Stresemann) tried to achieve reconciliation between France and Germany as the basis for establishing a durable peace in Europe. A few intellectuals, such as Fritz von Unruh in Germany, even talked and wrote about a union of sorts between France and Germany. However, the Great Depression and the rise of the Nazis wrecked their efforts.

After WW2 there were fresh efforts, however. Initially, the countries actively involved were France, West Germany, Italy and the Benelux countries. The move also had the support of Churchill. It began in 1951 with European Coal and Steel Community which created a common market for coal and steel amongst 6 member-states (West Germany, France, Italy, Belgium, Netherlands and Luxembourg).

The next step was a customs union - the European Economic Union (1957) - with tax harmonization in some areas. It was also felt that economic interdependence would strengthen peace. The first expansion occurred in 1973 when Britain, the Irish Republic and Denmark joined. The EU has continued to expand and now consists of 27 countries with an overall population of about 492 million people (2007). Additional countries are clamoring for admission. After all, nothing succeeds more than success.

Britain appears to be a reluctant member. It has still not succeeded in finding a post-imperial role for itself. Moreover, at key junctures many British politicians have badly underestimated the potential of the EU - and still do so.

So trade is easier in between the countries, and if they are in the EU, they can just have a common currency.

Answer 2

It was formed to restore peace in the countries of Europe. Of course, not all countries have joined, but not all have the right roads and money that is needed to join. There are 27 countries so far, and I believe that Iceland is currently trying to join.

Answer 3

It was formed by Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, Luxembourg and the Netherlands in roughly 1950, it was created primarily due to coal trading and in an attempt to curb the wars that kept on happening between the countries that made up central Europe. More information is available from the Europa website which there is a link to in the related links section.

Answer 4

It was established in 1947 for many reasons, the most predominant of these being 1) to prevent another disasterous war that would cripple all countries again2)to create links between these new countries

and the MAIN reason

3) to establish a system of trade between all European countries for the benefit of all. this idea was based on Adam Smiths economic idea's of comparative advantage

Answer 5

The European Union was formed to make economics and trade between the countries easier.

Answer 6

The EU was originally established after WWII to avoid the possibility of another European war.

Answer 7

1960s and 1970s- Ireland joins Free Trade Agreements, including European Economic Community (which later becomes European Union)

Answer 8

The European Union was founded on the 1st November 1993.