Purpose of the European Union

And the relationship of its members SS6CG5b. Describe the purpose of the European Union and the relationship between member nations

European Union (EU)

• • Has 27 members Purpose: work together to improve – Trade – Education – Farming – Industry

Benefits

• When small countries combine, they have – More people – Larger economy Land area Population GDP

EU

1,500,000 500,000,000 $14 trillion

U.S.

3,700,000 305,000,000 $13.5 trillion

Results

• Euro – currency ($$$) of the EU (makes trade between countries easier) • No taxes on goods traded between EU countries (Free-trade zone) • Citizens can move from 1 EU country to another, live and work in any EU country, and even vote in another EU country.

CRCT Test Prep

• • Read p. 142 – 143.

Answer questions # 368-371 Summary In your learning log (p. 9) answer this question: Why do countries want to be part of the EU?