Europe: Unite, Fight, Repeat: Our Continent's Long History of Cooperation and Conflict

The EU's current struggle between those seeking closer cooperation and those pursuing national sovereignty has parallels lasting centuries, reflecting the tension between a shared European civilization and the desire for self-governing states. This long history is essential for understanding Europe's past, present, and future.

Format: Hardback
Length: 384 pages
Publication date: 15 August 2019
Publisher: Amberley Publishing

The events unfolding within the European Union in recent years have captured the attention of the world, giving rise to the perception that they are unique in European history. However, when viewed in the broader context of the continent's long and complex history, it becomes evident that this struggle between those seeking closer cooperation and those advocating for national sovereignty is not a new phenomenon. In fact, this tension between a shared European civilization and the desire for self-governing states has been a constant throughout the continents history.

From the days of the Romans and Charlemagne, the dream of a unified European power has come close to realization, only to be transient. At the same time, the pursuit of independence has fueled the growth of great nations, but it has also led to numerous destructive wars. Understanding this long history is crucial for anyone seeking to comprehend the past, present, and future of Europe.

The Roman Empire, which emerged in the 3rd century BCE, was a significant milestone in European history. It brought together different cultures and languages under a single rule, creating a vast and powerful empire. However, the empire's expansion also led to conflicts and divisions among its subjects.

The Carolingian Empire, which succeeded the Roman Empire in the 8th century CE, was another attempt to unify Europe. Charlemagne, the emperor of the empire, sought to establish a centralized government and promote Christianity throughout the continent. However, the empire's collapse in the 10th century CE marked the end of this attempt.

The Middle Ages, which lasted from the 5th to the 15th century CE, were a period of political fragmentation and religious conflict. Different kingdoms and empires emerged, and the Catholic Church played a central role in shaping European society. However, the Renaissance, which began in the 14th century CE, marked a period of cultural and intellectual revival, and it paved the way for the modern European Union.

The Age of Enlightenment, which emerged in the 17th century CE, was a period of scientific and intellectual progress that challenged the authority of the Catholic Church and the monarchy. It led to the development of liberalism, democracy, and human rights, which are fundamental principles of the European Union today.

The French Revolution, which began in 1789 CE, was a pivotal moment in European history. It marked the end of the monarchy and the rise of democracy, and it inspired similar revolutions across the continent. The revolution also led to the establishment of the European Union, which was created to promote economic and political cooperation among its member states.

The two World Wars, which occurred in the 20th century CE, were the most significant events in European history. They led to the deaths of millions of people and the destruction of entire countries. The wars also paved the way for the establishment of the United Nations, which is aimed at preventing future conflicts and promoting peace and security.

In conclusion, the events unfolding within the European Union in recent years are not unique in European history. The struggle between those seeking closer cooperation and those advocating for national sovereignty has been a constant throughout the continent's history. From the Roman Empire to the European Union, the continent has experienced periods of unity and division, progress and regression, and war and peace. Understanding this long history is crucial for anyone seeking to comprehend the past, present, and future of Europe.

Weight: 772g
Dimension: 244 x 166 x 40 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781445693422