Spain and Portugal Join European Community in 1986, Marking Major Expansion
In a significant shift towards European integration, Spain and Portugal joined the European Community in 1986, following their respective democratization processes. This marked a crucial step in the expansion of the community, which was initially founded by six nations in 1958.
The European Coal and Steel Community (ECSC) and the European Economic Community (EEC) were established by Germany, France, the Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg, and Italy. These communities aimed to foster economic cooperation and integration among their member states.
The first expansion of the community occurred in 1973, with Denmark, Ireland, and the United Kingdom becoming members. This expansion was significant as it marked the first time new countries joined the community.
Greece, following its return to democracy in 1974, became the first southern European country to join the EEC in 1981. This was a notable step in the community's expansion towards the south of Europe.
The democratization of Spain and Portugal in the late 1970s paved the way for their eventual membership in the European Community. Carlos Arias Navarro was the head of government in Spain during this transition, while António de Spínola became the first post-revolution President in Portugal and Adelino da Palma Carlos served as the first Prime Minister of the democratic period.
The expansion of the European Community, from its initial six members to include Spain, Portugal, and Greece, reflected the growing desire for European integration and cooperation. This expansion also marked the inclusion of countries with diverse political histories and economic backgrounds, contributing to the rich tapestry of the European Union today.
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