1960s, 1970s, and 1980s: The nations of Europe work increasingly toward peace and mutually beneficial trade relations through various international organizations that change names and merge several times over the decades. The European Economic Community, established in 1957, is designed to facilitate peaceful, mutually beneficial trade relations between the nations of Europe. In 1967 the European Economic Community merges with the European Cole and Steel Community and the European Atomic Energy Community to form the European Communities. In 1979 the European Communities establish the European Monetary System to facilitate international trade between its member nations. In the 1980s the European Communities change its name to the European Community. In 1987 the European Community adopts the Single European Act, declaring the intention of creating a free-trade market throughout Europe.

1990s and Today: The Treaty on European Union, also called the Maastricht Treaty, is completed in 1991. The Maastricht Treaty expands...