The European Union (EU) represents a unique relationship among fifteen democratic nations, with the aim of constructing a united Europe. The EU is more than an international organization, but not a full-blown federation. The European Union is the world's largest trading entity, accounting for well over 20% of world trade. Its population totals nearly 375 million people. The European Community was the brainchild of Jean Monnet of France. In May 1950, French Foreign Minister Robert Schuman proposed pooling the coal and steel industries of France and West Germany.
