The roots of the EU lie in the great wars of the 20th century, which devastated Europe twice, first from 1914 to 1918, and then from 1939 to 1945. After the Second World War, the idea of a united Europe was born as a response to the destruction and the need to ensure peace and stability.
On 9 May 1950, French foreign minister Robert Schuman proposed the creation of an economic community based on cooperation between countries. This date is considered Europe Day, a symbol of unity and progress.
Initially made up of six founding countries (Belgium, Germany, France, Italy, Luxembourg and the Netherlands), the EU has grown to 27 Member States. It has expanded gradually:
- 1973: Denmark, Ireland and the United Kingdom
- 1981: Greece
- 1986: Spain and Portugal
- 1995: Austria, Finland and Sweden
- 2004: The largest enlargement with the accession of 10 countries.
- 2007: Bulgaria and Romania
- 2013: Croatia