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Heimler Unit 9 - Topic 10

Apr 8, 2025

AP European History: Formation of the European Union

Historical Context

  • Pre-20th Century Europe: United by the Roman Catholic Church.
  • Protestant Reformation: Led to centuries of conflict between European nations.
  • Post World Wars: Europe sought solutions to prevent future large-scale conflicts.

Steps Towards European Cooperation

Economics as a Foundation

  • Marshall Plan:

    • US invested $13 billion in European reconstruction.
    • Funds required cooperative use among European nations.
  • Organization for European Economic Cooperation (OEEC):

    • Managed the distribution and spending of Marshall Plan funds.

Formation of Economic Communities

  • European Coal and Steel Community (1951):

    • Formed by six nations: France, West Germany, Italy, Belgium, Netherlands, Luxembourg.
    • Integrated coal and steel industries to prevent war.
  • Expansion to the Common Market (1957):

    • Extended economic cooperation to additional goods.
    • Facilitated trade and travel between member states.

Establishment of the European Union

Maastricht Treaty (1993)

  • Formation of the EU:

    • Initially included 12 countries.
    • Not solely economic but political integration.
  • Political and Economic Integration:

    • Creation of EU governance bodies (parliament, executive body, ministerial group).
    • Introduction of the Euro currency for economic unity.

Challenges and Tensions

National Sovereignty vs. Union Responsibilities

  • Sovereignty:

    • Nations want to maintain individual identity and interests.
  • Union Advantages:

    • Economic and political strength in unity.

Brexit

  • United Kingdom's Exit from the EU (2016-2020):
    • Motivated by issues like EU immigration policies.
    • Reflected tension between national independence and union benefits.

Review and Resources

  • Links to additional AP Euro resources and review packs for students preparing for exams.