The European Union’s Grand Vision: A Closer Look at the Euro Banknotes

Have you ever noticed that the entire European continent is depicted on the euro banknotes, rather than just the parts of the European Union or the countries using the euro? This curiosity can be traced back to a broader historical context of European unification. This article explores why the Euromosaic reflects the entire continent and not just parts of it, drawing parallels to past attempts at a United Europe.

History of European Unification Efforts

Throughout history, many leaders have had grand visions of a 'United Europe'. The French Empire during the 19th century and the Greater Germanic Reich in the early 20th century are prime examples. The French Empire's ambitions reached far and wide, as it included regions like Hamburg, Barcelona, and Rome, among others, under its rule. Similarly, the Greater Germanic Reich sought to unite parts of Europe, including cities like Litzmannstadt and Theoderichshafen.

These past efforts, though ambitious, often met with resistance from regions that did not wish to be part of such unifications. The current European Union retains the ideals of these historical movements but operates with a far more inclusive approach.

The Modern European Union: Unifying Europe on Paper

The modern European Union, with its 2021 design on euro banknotes, continues these historical ambitions with a focus on unity. However, the EU's vision extends beyond just political and economic ties. The depiction of the entire European continent on the euro banknotes symbolizes the larger goal of unification that has driven European leaders for centuries. This vision can be seen as an extension of past attempts to create a unified European superstate.

Enduring Ambitions and Critiques

While the euro banknotes reflect the EU's ambitious vision, the bloc faces criticism and challenges. Some critics point to the EU's long-term goal of creating a vast European superstate, symbolized by these banknotes. This ambition is often criticized for being too grand and potentially exclusionary. As historian David Andelman puts it, the EU’s official song, "Ode to Joy," is seen as an insult to Beethoven's original meaning, and some suggest replacing it with "Hotel California," a metaphor for the EU's reluctance to let members leave.

The current disputes between the UK and the EU highlight this tension. While the UK may have the ability to turn Brussels into a 'parking lot,' other non-EU countries like Norway and Switzerland are more concerned about the EU's ambitions and economic power. The EU is not just a political union; it is also an economic superpower that has threatened sanctions against its own members to maintain unity. Belarus, with its ally to the east, is likely the only country safe from potential EU expansionism.

Understanding the Currency Design

Let's take a closer look at the design on the euro banknotes. The cities depicted, such as Litzmannstadt (Lodz) and Sudauen, have German names but were never genuinely part of Germany. Sevastopol is actually Theoderichshafen, and Warschau and Krakau are simply Warsaw and Krakow. The euro banknotes serve as a reminder of the larger historical context of European unification and the enduring ambition of European leaders to see a united Europe.

While the Euro banknotes reflect a grand vision of a united Europe, the reality is a complex interplay of political, economic, and historical contexts. The future of this vision remains to be seen, but the euro banknotes continue to be a symbol of the enduring dream of a unified Europe.