How did the European countries resolve their post-Second World War problem? Briefly outline the attempts that led to the formation of the European Union.
After the Second World War, Europe faced the 'Question of Europe' — whether to revert to old rivalries or reconstruct on new principles. The war had shattered Europe's economies and destroyed the assumptions and structures on which European states had based their relations.
The resolution of these problems began with the Marshall Plan, through which America extended massive financial help to revive Europe's economy. The Organisation for European Economic Cooperation (OEEC) was established in 1948 to channel aid to western European states and became a forum for cooperation on trade and economic issues. The Council of Europe was established in 1949 to promote political cooperation.
The process of economic integration proceeded step by step. In 1951, six west European countries signed the Treaty of Paris establishing the European Coal and Steel Community (ECSC). In 1957, these countries signed the Treaties of Rome, establishing the European Economic Community (EEC) and the European Atomic Energy Community.
The integration process acquired a political dimension with the creation of the European Parliament. The Schengen Agreement of 1985 abolished border controls among member states. The collapse of the Soviet bloc put Europe on a fast track towards greater unity.
This process culminated in the establishment of the European Union in 1992 through the Treaty of Maastricht. The foundation was laid for a common foreign and security policy, cooperation on justice and home affairs, and the creation of a single currency. The EU thus evolved from an economic union to an increasingly political one.
Explanation
This answer covers the key developments in post-WWII European integration as mentioned in the textbook. It addresses both parts of the question: (1) how Europe resolved post-war problems through the Marshall Plan, OEEC, and NATO, and (2) the step-by-step process leading to the EU formation. The timeline of ECSC (1951), EEC (1957), and finally EU (1992) is clearly outlined. Key terms are bolded as per exam formatting requirements.
Solution Steps
Step 1: Identify the post-WWII problems faced by Europe - shattered economies and destroyed structures
Step 2: Explain the initial resolution through Marshall Plan, OEEC, and Council of Europe
Step 3: Trace the economic integration process from ECSC (1951) to EEC (1957)
Step 4: Describe the political dimension through European Parliament and Schengen Agreement
Step 5: Conclude with the establishment of EU in 1992 through the Maastricht Treaty