The European Union has expanded a number of times throughout its history by way of the accession of new member states to the Union. To join the EU, a state needs to fulfil economic and political condi
The European Commission, which plays a central role in the enlargement process.
The Iron Curtain's fall enabled eastward enlargement. (Berlin Wall)
The European Economic Community was a regional organisation created by the Treaty of Rome of 1957, aiming to foster economic integration among its member states. It was subsequently renamed the Europe
French President Charles de Gaulle vetoed British membership, held back the development of Parliament's powers and was at the centre of the 'empty chair crisis' of 1965.
The High Authority had more executive powers than the Commission which replaced it.
The European Parliament held its first elections in 1979, slowly gaining more influence over Community decision making.