Before the end of WWII in 1945 most of European countries were in constant wars with their neighbors. This was detrimental for the entire region because the fighting hampered efforts to develop a sustained economic growth. Due to these circumstances, the European Union was born to finally put an end to the endless wars among countries.
Around the 1950s, countries which were producing coal and steel in Europe, decided that in order to continue with the success of the two industries, it was necessary to unite European countries politically and economically and continue to enjoy the benefits of a good economy and to assure the stability of the region through a lasting peace.
The founder country members were France, Belgium, Italy, Germany, Luxembourg and the Netherlands. Thanks to their initiative, the European Union is what it is today, one the largest trading blocks around the world, and it is their hope that the lasting peace will continue for many more years.
