Treaty of Rome facts for kids

The Treaty of Rome was an important agreement signed on March 25, 1957. Six European countries – Belgium, France, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, and Germany – signed it. For a long time, these countries had many wars. But after World War II, they wanted to work together for peace and a better future.

This treaty was a big step towards creating the European Economic Community (EEC). The EEC aimed to bring these countries closer by making it easier for goods and people to move between them. It was like creating one big market where everyone could trade freely. The Treaty of Rome, along with another treaty called the Treaty of Maastricht, eventually led to the creation of the European Union (EU). Over time, many more countries joined this group, making Europe more connected than ever before.

What Was the Treaty of Rome?

The Treaty of Rome was like a rulebook for how the six countries would work together. It set up the European Economic Community (EEC). The main idea was to create a "common market." This meant that things like cars, food, and clothes could be sold freely between the member countries without extra taxes or difficult rules. It also made it easier for people to travel and work in any of these countries.

Why Was This Treaty Important?

This treaty was super important because it helped stop wars in Europe. Instead of fighting, countries started to trade and cooperate. This made them depend on each other, which helped build peace. It also helped their economies grow, bringing more jobs and opportunities for people. The treaty laid the foundation for the European Union we know today, which is a group of countries working together on many different things.

How Did It Change Europe?

Before the treaty, each country had its own rules for trade. This made it hard for businesses to sell their products across borders. The Treaty of Rome changed this by removing many of these barriers. It helped create a stronger economy for all member countries. It also encouraged people from different countries to learn about each other and work together, building a sense of shared community in Europe.

Images for kids

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  The signature page on the original Treaty of Rome

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  A 1987 silver coin celebrating 30 years of united Europe

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  A projection on the Colosseum in Rome, part of the 60th anniversary celebrations

See also

In Spanish: Tratados de Roma para niños