The Treaty of Rome established the European Economic Community, laying the foundation for modern European integration.
Signed on March 25, 1957, the Treaty of Rome was a landmark agreement that established the European Economic Community (EEC), marking a significant step towards economic integration in Europe. The treaty was signed by six Western European countries: France, Germany, Italy, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Luxembourg. These nations sought to foster economic cooperation and prevent future conflicts in a region that had been ravaged by two world wars. By creating a common market and customs union, the treaty aimed to eliminate trade barriers and promote economic prosperity. The Treaty of Rome is widely regarded as a pivotal moment in European history, setting the stage for the development of the European Union and significantly influencing the political and economic landscape of the continent.
Chapters
Timeline
1955-06-01
Messina Conference
The Messina Conference marked the beginning of discussions on European economic integration, leading to the decision to explore the creation of a common market.
1956-05-29
Spaak Report
The Spaak Report outlined the benefits of a common market and provided the basis for the negotiations that would lead to the Treaty of Rome.
1956-06-01
Negotiations Begin
Formal negotiations for the Treaty of Rome began, involving representatives from France, Germany, Italy, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Luxembourg.
1957-03-25
Treaty of Rome Signed
The Treaty of Rome was signed by the foreign ministers of the six participating countries, establishing the European Economic Community and Euratom.
1958-01-01
Treaty Comes into Force
The Treaty of Rome officially came into force, marking the beginning of the European Economic Community and the implementation of its provisions.
1962-01-01
Common Agricultural Policy
The Common Agricultural Policy was introduced, aiming to stabilize agricultural markets and support rural development within the EEC.
1965-04-08
Empty Chair Crisis
France boycotted EEC meetings in protest against proposed changes to the decision-making process, leading to a temporary crisis in the community.
1973-01-01
First Enlargement
The EEC expanded to include Denmark, Ireland, and the United Kingdom, marking the first enlargement of the community.
1986-01-01
Single European Act
The Single European Act was signed, amending the Treaty of Rome and paving the way for the completion of the single market.
1993-11-01
Maastricht Treaty
The Maastricht Treaty established the European Union, building on the foundations laid by the Treaty of Rome and furthering European integration.
Connected Across The Archives
Explore specific connections to other archives—civilizations, conflicts, dynasties, and companies that share history with this treaty.
Civilization Archive
(4)British Imperial Civilization
The Treaty of Rome's creation reflected the British Empire's waning global dominance, prompting European nations to seek economic unity to bolster their influence.
Byzantine Empire
The Treaty of Rome initiated European integration, contrasting with the Byzantine Empire's historical fragmentation of European territories.
Holy Roman Empire
The Treaty of Rome's signing marked a new era of European unity, contrasting with the Holy Roman Empire's fragmented and declining influence.
Soviet Civilization
During the Cold War, the Treaty of Rome represented Western Europe's economic unification as a counterbalance to Soviet expansion and influence.
Lineage Archive
(2)House of Bourbon
The Treaty of Rome coincided with the waning influence of the Bourbon dynasty, highlighting a shift towards modern political structures in Europe.
House of Habsburg
The Treaty of Rome emerged during the decline of Habsburg influence, marking a shift from dynastic to economic and political alliances in Europe.