The European Economic Community: From the Common Market to the European Union

By Lucius Thompson

The European Economic Community (EEC), established in 1957 by the Treaty of Rome, was a landmark initiative aimed at fostering economic cooperation and political unity in post-war Europe. Its creation marked the beginning of a profound transformation for Europe, enabling member states to transcend nationalism and build a foundation for sustained peace and prosperity. This book explores the historical development, economic policies, and political significance of the EEC, tracing its evolution into the European Union (EU) and its lasting impact on Europe and the world.

 

Initially founded by six Western European nations—France, West Germany, Italy, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Luxembourg—the EEC was designed to create a customs union, a common market, and a unified agricultural policy. Over the decades, the EEC expanded its membership and deepened its economic integration, culminating in the creation of the Single Market and the introduction of the euro. By eliminating trade barriers and promoting the free movement of goods, services, people, and capital, the EEC laid the groundwork for Europe's economic prosperity and global influence.

 

The book also examines the institutional framework of the EEC, including the roles of the European Commission, the Council of Ministers, the European Court of Justice, and the European Parliament. It highlights the EEC's significant achievements, such as the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP), the European Monetary System, and the development of regional and social cohesion policies aimed at reducing economic disparities.

 

Furthermore, this work delves into the EEC's role in shaping global trade through its participation in the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT) and its complex relationships with major global actors such as the United States, Japan, and developing countries. The EEC's influence in promoting trade liberalization and setting global standards is also explored, alongside its efforts to support development in former colonies and regions.

 

As the EEC evolved into the European Union in 1993, its legacy as a force for peace, economic integration, and political cooperation continued to shape Europe's future. This book reflects on the EEC's enduring impact, highlighting its role in fostering a unified Europe that remains a key player in global politics, economics, and diplomacy. By examining the EEC's contributions to Europe's recovery and development, the book provides a comprehensive understanding of how the EEC shaped modern Europe and its position in the world today.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Historia Magna
• Release date: Sep 28, 2024
• ISBN: 9798227552709

Book preview

Introduction

The European Economic Community (EEC), also known as the Common Market, stands as one of the most remarkable achievements in European history, embodying a vision of unity, peace, and shared prosperity. Conceived in the aftermath of two devastating world wars, it marked a bold step towards overcoming centuries of conflict among European nations by binding them together through economic cooperation. While the EEC was initially framed around economic principles, it would come to serve as the foundation of a more profound political and social integration, eventually transforming into the European Union (EU).

The journey of the EEC—from its humble beginnings to its pivotal role in shaping modern Europe—offers a rich story of diplomacy, conflict resolution, and economic innovation. It is a tale of visionaries like Robert Schuman, Jean Monnet, and Konrad Adenauer, whose dream of a united Europe would reshape the continent’s future. At its core, the EEC represents the potential for nations to transcend nationalism in favor of collective growth, security, and peace.

This book seeks to explore the origins, development, and lasting legacy of the EEC. We will delve into the economic motivations, political challenges, and institutional innovations that enabled this experiment in European integration to succeed. We will also examine how the EEC grew over the decades, expanding its membership and deepening its policies, ultimately becoming the European Union—a global actor in trade, diplomacy, and governance.

In tracing the EEC’s evolution, we aim not only to recount its historical milestones but to assess its broader impact on the European project. How did a divided continent come together to form the world’s largest single market? What were the key policies and institutional mechanisms that ensured its success? And how did the EEC’s early struggles and achievements shape the future of European integration?

The story of the EEC is essential for understanding Europe’s past, present, and future. As Europe continues to face new challenges—whether through economic crises, migration issues, or the shifting dynamics of global power—understanding the successes and failures of its earlier integration efforts is crucial. This book will provide an in-depth exploration of the EEC’s contribution to the European and global order and reflect on its enduring significance in a rapidly changing world.

Chapter 1: The Origins of European Integration

The devastation of World War II left Europe in ruins. Economically, politically, and socially shattered, the continent needed to rebuild not just its infrastructure but its relationships. For centuries, Europe had been defined by fierce rivalries, competing empires, and bloody conflicts. The two world wars that had engulfed the continent in the first half of the 20th century laid bare the destructive potential of nationalism and militarism. By 1945, a growing realization emerged among European leaders: the future of Europe depended on cooperation, not competition.

The earliest efforts to prevent future wars through international cooperation began with the establishment of the United Nations in 1945. However, visionary leaders in Europe, particularly in France and Germany, recognized that peace could only be secured through deeper regional integration. This recognition culminated in the formation of the European Coal and Steel Community (ECSC) in 1951, a critical precursor to the EEC.

The Marshall Plan and European Recovery

One of the first steps toward European integration came through external support, notably from the United States. After the war, Europe faced enormous economic challenges. Industrial production had plummeted, cities and transport networks were destroyed, and widespread poverty was rife. In response, the United States initiated the Marshall Plan in 1947, which aimed to provide massive economic assistance to help rebuild Europe. Beyond immediate financial aid, the Marshall Plan encouraged European nations to cooperate economically to ensure long-term stability.

The Marshall Plan planted the seeds for European economic integration. European nations had to collaborate on the distribution of aid, leading to the creation of the Organisation for European Economic Cooperation (OEEC) in 1948. While the OEEC helped coordinate economic reconstruction, it was primarily a forum for cooperation rather than a step toward deeper integration.

The Schuman Declaration: A Vision for Europe

The turning point in the history of European integration came on May 9, 1950, with the