When Jean Monnet brainstormed the modern European Union, he based his peace-driven idea on America’s model of independent states, united by a greater goal. With the help of the US, Monnet planted the seeds for a bloc that has not only established today’s European peace and prosperity—but also impacts how we experience Europe.
When European integration hit full swing, I (like many of my European friends) feared each country’s independent pride and individual culture would be threatened. But just the opposite seems to be happening. The EU promotes identity among its nations by annually allocating hundreds of millions of euros for cultural heritage protection. Ireland, for example, receives EU funds that keep traditional Irish dance schools alive, help preserve the Irish language, and ensure the Cliffs of Moher receive proper maintenance. All 27 EU countries receive similar funding.
