The European Union is a system that was created to help form a unity, and strengthen European states. After two ruinous world wars and the extension of Soviet power, many people recognized the need for some form of European unity(Perry, Berg, Krukones pg. 458).The European Union was originally formed from the European Coal and Steel Community. The community was formed in 1951, and consisted of France, West Germany, the Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg, and Italy. The purpose of this community was to promote economic cooperation. It later expanded, and in 1993 it became the European Union.
The advantages of the EU are open borders, which allows easier travel. This has increased tourism because borders are easier to cross. Work between member nations is not restricted so people may move easily between nations to find employment. Another advantage is the free trade zone. This allows other countries to have access to any market within the EU. Other advantages are; more jobs, diverse job market, and overall economic growth.
Although the EU was formed to strengthen, and help the states, some feared disadvantages of the unity. Some Europeans, particularly in smaller nations are worried about their country’s future in an increasingly integrated Europe: are they surrendering their national identity, along with their sovereignty, to the EU(Perry, Berg, Krukones pg. 459). Along with the loss of identity, are the economic inequalities within the union. The majority of the newer members are not as wealthy as western European members. The economic demands of the membership are