Treaty of Rome

Definition

The Treaty of Rome is a foundational agreement signed on March 25, 1957, which established the European Economic Community (EEC) and laid the groundwork for the modern European Union. This treaty was crucial in promoting economic cooperation and integration among member states, helping to rebuild Europe after the devastation of World War II and set the stage for further political and economic collaboration.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Treaty of Rome was signed by six founding countries: Belgium, France, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, and West Germany.
2. It created a customs union, which eliminated tariffs between member states while establishing a common external tariff against non-member countries.
3. The treaty also aimed to promote social progress and improve living and working conditions within the EEC.
4. The establishment of the EEC through the Treaty of Rome marked a significant step towards the eventual creation of the European Union in 1993.
5. The Treaty of Rome's provisions have been amended and expanded by subsequent treaties, influencing various areas including trade policy, regional development, and environmental protection.

Review Questions

• How did the Treaty of Rome contribute to the economic recovery of Europe after World War II?
  • The Treaty of Rome played a vital role in Europe's economic recovery post-World War II by establishing the European Economic Community (EEC), which facilitated trade among member states. By creating a customs union that eliminated tariffs between its six founding members, the treaty promoted economic growth through increased market access. This cooperation helped stabilize economies ravaged by war, fostering reconstruction efforts and leading to greater interdependence among European nations.
• Discuss the significance of the Treaty of Rome in relation to earlier steps towards European integration like ECSC and Euratom.
  • The Treaty of Rome built upon earlier efforts at European integration through initiatives like the European Coal and Steel Community (ECSC) and Euratom. While ECSC focused on controlling coal and steel production to prevent future conflicts, and Euratom aimed to regulate nuclear energy cooperation, the Treaty of Rome expanded these principles by establishing a broader economic framework with the EEC. This comprehensive approach not only strengthened economic ties but also laid a foundation for further political integration within Europe.
• Evaluate the long-term impact of the Treaty of Rome on European politics and global influence.
  • The Treaty of Rome has had a profound long-term impact on European politics and global influence by setting in motion a process of deepening integration that eventually led to the establishment of the European Union. This treaty not only fostered economic cooperation but also encouraged political collaboration among member states. As a result, Europe has become a significant player on the global stage, influencing international policies through collective action on issues such as trade, security, and climate change, thus reshaping its role in global affairs.

Related terms

European Economic Community (EEC): An organization established by the Treaty of Rome that aimed to create a common market and enhance economic cooperation among its member states.

Common Market: An economic union that allows for the free movement of goods, services, capital, and labor among member countries, fostering greater integration.

European Union (EU): A political and economic union of member states that are located primarily in Europe, formed to promote integration and cooperation across various sectors.