The story of the EU in 10 dates
After the Second World War, countries that had fought each other decided to work together to keep the peace. Here is how the story went on.
- 1950
9 May 1950
Robert Schuman proposes pooling coal and steel to keep the peace. It is the start of the adventure, and the day of Europe Day.
Source : europarl.europa.eu - 1958
1 January 1958
The Treaties of Rome come into force: 6 countries form the European Economic Community.
Source : europarl.europa.eu - 1973
1 January 1973
First enlargement: Denmark, Ireland and the United Kingdom join.
Source : european-union.europa.eu - 1979
7 June 1979
For the first time, people elect the European Parliament themselves.
Source : europarl.europa.eu - 1993
1 November 1993
The Maastricht Treaty comes into force: the European Union is born.
Source : europarl.europa.eu - 1995
- 2002
- 2004
- 2013
- 2020
Little quiz
Question 1 of 3
Why is Europe celebrated on 9 May?
On 9 May 1950, Robert Schuman proposed pooling coal and steel.
Question 2 of 3
In which year was the name “European Union” born?
With the Maastricht Treaty, in force in 1993.
Question 3 of 3
Which country joined the EU most recently?
Croatia, in 2013.