CBSE Class 12 Political Science (59/5/2) Question Paper 2024 (Available): Download Solution PDF with Answer Key

- The Antarctic Environmental Protocol was signed in 1991.
- The First Earth Summit took place in 1992.
- The Energy Conservation Act was enacted in 2001.
- India signed the Kyoto Protocol in 2002.

\begin{quicktipbox
Understanding the chronological order of global environmental agreements helps in grasping the international approach to sustainable development.
\end{quicktipbox Quick Tip: Understanding the chronological order of global environmental agreements helps in grasping the international approach to sustainable development.

The Planning Commission, which was established in 1950, was replaced by NITI Aayog in 2015 to promote cooperative federalism and better tackle new challenges like inclusive growth, innovation, and globalization.

\begin{quicktipbox
NITI Aayog allows states more flexibility in planning and economic policy implementation, fostering a more dynamic approach to development.
\end{quicktipbox Quick Tip: NITI Aayog allows states more flexibility in planning and economic policy implementation, fostering a more dynamic approach to development.

- (a) India was the first country to liberalize its economy in South Asia in the 1990s.

- (b) The Maldives had a Sultan as its Head of State until 1968 when it became a republic.

- (c) Nepal is a landlocked country in South Asia.

- (d) In the 1990s, Nepal experienced a conflict where the military prevailed over the pro-democracy movement.


\begin{quicktipbox
Understanding the geographical and political contexts of South Asian countries helps in analyzing their development and foreign policy trajectories.
\end{quicktipbox Quick Tip: Understanding the geographical and political contexts of South Asian countries helps in analyzing their development and foreign policy trajectories.

Shock therapy refers to the rapid transition from a planned economy to a market economy. In the case of Russia, the value of the Ruble declined (i), it led to a strengthening of capitalism (ii), and the reduction in prices of goods due to market forces (iii). However, it did not support social welfare (iv), which was replaced by market-driven policies.

\begin{quicktipbox
Shock therapy often leads to inflation, social instability, and economic inequality, despite achieving economic liberalization.
\end{quicktipbox Quick Tip: Shock therapy often leads to inflation, social instability, and economic inequality, despite achieving economic liberalization.

The Disintegration of the Soviet Union in 1991 marked the formal end of communism in the USSR. The collapse resulted in the independence of several republics and the shift to a capitalist economy in Russia.

\begin{quicktipbox
The fall of the Berlin Wall and the collapse of the USSR symbolized the decline of communist regimes across Eastern Europe.
\end{quicktipbox Quick Tip: The fall of the Berlin Wall and the collapse of the USSR symbolized the decline of communist regimes across Eastern Europe.

The global atmosphere is indeed warming up, primarily due to the increase in greenhouse gases, not because of ozone depletion. While the depletion of the ozone layer contributes to other environmental concerns, it is not directly responsible for global warming.

\begin{quicktipbox
Global warming is mainly caused by the accumulation of greenhouse gases, such as carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide.
\end{quicktipbox Quick Tip: Global warming is mainly caused by the accumulation of greenhouse gases, such as carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide.

General Ayub Khan took over the administration of Pakistan in 1958, after the adoption of the constitution. He staged a coup and became the first military ruler of Pakistan.

\begin{quicktipbox
Ayub Khan’s rule marked a shift from civilian governance to military rule in Pakistan.
\end{quicktipbox Quick Tip: Ayub Khan’s rule marked a shift from civilian governance to military rule in Pakistan.

Chhattisgarh was carved out from Madhya Pradesh on 1st November 2000 to form a new state in India, for better administrative management and regional development.

\begin{quicktipbox
Chhattisgarh became the 26th state of India after it was separated from Madhya Pradesh.
\end{quicktipbox Quick Tip: Chhattisgarh became the 26th state of India after it was separated from Madhya Pradesh.

Indira Gandhi’s leadership involved the abolition of privy purses, nationalisation of banks, and land reforms. However, India under her leadership conducted nuclear tests in 1974 (Smiling Buddha), breaking the claim of non-use of nuclear power.

\begin{quicktipbox
Indira Gandhi’s policies were marked by a strong shift towards socialist economic measures and assertive foreign policy.
\end{quicktipbox Quick Tip: Indira Gandhi’s policies were marked by a strong shift towards socialist economic measures and assertive foreign policy.

The Assertion is correct as protests did take place in India before the fourth General elections in 1967, largely due to rising prices, food scarcity, and unemployment. The Reason is also correct as it was mainly due to the failure of monsoons, widespread drought, and declining agricultural production that aggravated the economic conditions.

\begin{quicktipbox
Economic distress caused by food shortages and inflation often leads to public dissatisfaction and protests.
\end{quicktipbox Quick Tip: Economic distress caused by food shortages and inflation often leads to public dissatisfaction and protests.

The Planning Commission was formed in 1950, shortly after India's independence, to plan and oversee the economic development of the country. It played a key role in formulating India's five-year plans.

\begin{quicktipbox
The Planning Commission was replaced by NITI Aayog in 2015 to promote cooperative federalism and address the evolving development challenges.
\end{quicktipbox Quick Tip: The Planning Commission was replaced by NITI Aayog in 2015 to promote cooperative federalism and address the evolving development challenges.

The Nizam of Hyderabad initially opposed joining the Indian Union after independence. Hyderabad was a large princely state that wanted to remain independent, but after the police action (Operation Polo) in 1948, it was integrated into India.

\begin{quicktipbox
Hyderabad's integration was a significant event in India's consolidation after independence, requiring military intervention due to the Nizam's reluctance to join India.
\end{quicktipbox Quick Tip: Hyderabad's integration was a significant event in India's consolidation after independence, requiring military intervention due to the Nizam's reluctance to join India.

1. Reduce, Reuse, Recycle: By reducing waste, reusing products, and recycling materials, we can significantly reduce the amount of waste that pollutes the environment.

2. Use of Eco-friendly Products: Shifting to biodegradable and environmentally friendly products, such as paper bags and non-toxic cleaning supplies, helps in reducing pollution.

\begin{quicktipbox
Small individual actions can collectively make a large difference in reducing environmental pollution.
\end{quicktipbox Quick Tip: Small individual actions can collectively make a large difference in reducing environmental pollution.

1. Inclusive Representation: Coalition governments bring together diverse political parties, ensuring that various regions and groups are represented in the government. This leads to more balanced decision-making.

2. Checks and Balances: Since power is shared among multiple parties, coalition governments are less likely to be dominated by one party, ensuring greater accountability and reducing the possibility of authoritarian rule.

\begin{quicktipbox
Coalition governments often lead to more democratic decision-making, as they require consensus-building across party lines.
\end{quicktipbox Quick Tip: Coalition governments often lead to more democratic decision-making, as they require consensus-building across party lines.

1. Geopolitical Considerations: Some countries, particularly in the region of South Asia and China, may oppose India’s membership due to strategic rivalries and concerns over India’s growing influence.

2. Regional Balance of Power: Countries fear that India's inclusion as a permanent member could upset the existing regional balance in favor of India, potentially weakening the power of smaller countries.

\begin{quicktipbox
India’s bid for permanent membership of the UN Security Council is complicated by geopolitical rivalries and the quest for regional balance.
\end{quicktipbox Quick Tip: India’s bid for permanent membership of the UN Security Council is complicated by geopolitical rivalries and the quest for regional balance.

1. Global Interdependence: Environmental issues like climate change, deforestation, and pollution affect the global community. No single country can tackle these issues alone, making it essential to address them through international cooperation.

2. Sustainability and Development: As resources become scarcer, the need for sustainable development has led countries to engage in global discussions on natural resource management and environmental protection, impacting world politics.

\begin{quicktipbox
Environmental and resource issues transcend borders and require global coordination to achieve sustainable outcomes.
\end{quicktipbox Quick Tip: Environmental and resource issues transcend borders and require global coordination to achieve sustainable outcomes.

1. Ethnic and Cultural Diversity: The North-East region of India has a diverse mix of ethnic and cultural groups. The creation of smaller states was aimed at addressing the aspirations of these groups and giving them better governance and representation.

2. Administrative Efficiency: The creation of smaller states helped improve administrative efficiency and regional development by focusing on local issues and promoting better resource management.

\begin{quicktipbox
The formation of smaller states in North-East India allowed for more focused governance, fostering local development and addressing regional concerns.
\end{quicktipbox Quick Tip: The formation of smaller states in North-East India allowed for more focused governance, fostering local development and addressing regional concerns.

1. End of Congress Dominance: The 1967 general elections saw Congress lose its majority in several states, marking the end of its unchallenged dominance in Indian politics and the rise of regional parties.

2. Rise of Coalition Politics: The elections of 1967 ushered in the era of coalition politics at the state level, with non-Congress parties forming governments in states like Punjab, West Bengal, and Bihar.

\begin{quicktipbox
1967 marked a significant shift in Indian politics, as regional parties gained prominence and the political landscape became more competitive.
\end{quicktipbox Quick Tip: 1967 marked a significant shift in Indian politics, as regional parties gained prominence and the political landscape became more competitive.

1. Cultural Erosion: One of the main reasons for resistance to globalization is the fear of cultural erosion. The spread of Western values, media, and lifestyles has raised concerns about the loss of traditional cultures and identities.

2. Economic Disparities: Globalization has led to increased inequality. While multinational corporations and wealthy nations benefit, many developing countries and smaller businesses face economic marginalization.

3. Loss of Sovereignty: Countries often resist globalization because it reduces their control over their own economic policies, especially in relation to trade and investment. Multilateral institutions like the IMF and WTO are seen as imposing conditions that limit national sovereignty.

4. Environmental Concerns: Globalization has been associated with increased exploitation of natural resources and environmental degradation. Resistance comes from concerns that unchecked global trade and industrialization lead to pollution, deforestation, and climate change.

\begin{quicktipbox
Globalization’s benefits often come with social, economic, and environmental costs, which lead to widespread resistance in some regions.
\end{quicktipbox Quick Tip: Globalization’s benefits often come with social, economic, and environmental costs, which lead to widespread resistance in some regions.

1. Protectorate Status (1947): After India's independence in 1947, Sikkim remained a protectorate under India. While it retained internal autonomy, India controlled its defense, communication, and foreign affairs.

2. Political Instability and Democratic Movement (1973): The 1970s saw a growing demand for democratic reforms in Sikkim. Political instability, corruption, and discontent led to pro-democracy protests, especially among the youth.

3. Tripartite Agreement (1974): In response to the unrest, a tripartite agreement was signed between the Chogyal (king), the government of India, and the Sikkimese people, introducing democratic reforms and making Sikkim a constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary system.

4. Merger with India (1975): After a public referendum in which the majority voted in favor of joining India, Sikkim officially became the 22nd state of India in 1975, ending its status as a protectorate.

\begin{quicktipbox
The peaceful integration of Sikkim into India was an example of democratic processes overcoming political challenges.
\end{quicktipbox Quick Tip: The peaceful integration of Sikkim into India was an example of democratic processes overcoming political challenges.

1. Strategic Partnership in Defence: Even after the breakup of the Soviet Union, Russia and India have continued their strategic cooperation in defence. Russia remains India's key supplier of advanced weaponry, including the S-400 missile system and various military aircraft.

2. Energy Cooperation: India and Russia continue to collaborate in the energy sector, particularly in nuclear energy. India has entered into agreements with Russia for the construction of nuclear power plants and the supply of nuclear fuel.

\begin{quicktipbox
India’s long-standing defense and energy cooperation with Russia reflects a strong, enduring relationship despite the Soviet Union's dissolution.
\end{quicktipbox Quick Tip: India’s long-standing defense and energy cooperation with Russia reflects a strong, enduring relationship despite the Soviet Union's dissolution.

1. State-Controlled Economy: Unlike the US, which had a capitalist economy with private ownership of businesses, the Soviet Union had a centrally planned economy. The government controlled all industries and agriculture, determining production, pricing, and distribution.

2. Absence of Private Property: In the Soviet system, private property did not exist. All land, factories, and resources were owned by the state. In contrast, the US economy was based on private ownership, where individuals and corporations owned property and assets.

\begin{quicktipbox
While the US economy emphasized free-market principles, the Soviet system focused on state control, aiming to achieve equality and planned development.
\end{quicktipbox Quick Tip: While the US economy emphasized free-market principles, the Soviet system focused on state control, aiming to achieve equality and planned development.

1. Return of Congress to Power: The mid-term elections of 1980 resulted in a decisive victory for the Congress Party, led by Indira Gandhi. It marked her return to power with a renewed mandate after the Emergency and its aftermath.

2. Decline of Janata Party: The Janata Party, which had formed the government in 1977 after the Emergency, saw a major decline in its political fortunes during the 1980 elections. Internal divisions and leadership issues contributed to their defeat.

3. Strengthening of Indira Gandhi's Leadership: The elections confirmed the enduring popularity of Indira Gandhi, as her leadership was pivotal in Congress's landslide victory. This strengthened her position within the party and the nation.

4. Political Polarization: The election results further polarized Indian politics, with Congress reclaiming its dominance and the opposition fragmented. The elections also highlighted the dissatisfaction with non-Congress governments, leading to further consolidation around Congress.

\begin{quicktipbox
The mid-term elections of 1980 served as a turning point in Indian politics, as they restored Congress's control over the political landscape.
\end{quicktipbox Quick Tip: The mid-term elections of 1980 served as a turning point in Indian politics, as they restored Congress's control over the political landscape.

1. Frequent Military Coups: Pakistan has experienced several military coups that disrupted its democratic processes. The military has often intervened in politics, ruling the country for long periods, which hindered the establishment of a stable democratic system.

2. Political Instability: Pakistan has faced political instability, characterized by frequent changes in government, corruption, and lack of continuity in policies. This has undermined efforts to build strong democratic institutions and governance.

\begin{quicktipbox
The frequent military interventions and political instability in Pakistan have delayed the establishment of a fully functional democracy.
\end{quicktipbox Quick Tip: The frequent military interventions and political instability in Pakistan have delayed the establishment of a fully functional democracy.

1. South Asian Free Trade Area (SAFTA): SAARC has worked towards economic integration in South Asia through initiatives like the South Asian Free Trade Area (SAFTA). This agreement aims to reduce trade barriers among member states, promoting economic cooperation and regional integration.

2. Disaster Management Cooperation: SAARC has also focused on regional cooperation in disaster management. The establishment of the SAARC Disaster Management Centre (SDMC) has allowed member countries to coordinate and collaborate in managing natural disasters, improving preparedness and response.

\begin{quicktipbox
SAARC’s initiatives, such as SAFTA and the Disaster Management Centre, promote regional cooperation by addressing shared challenges through multilateral cooperation.
\end{quicktipbox Quick Tip: SAARC’s initiatives, such as SAFTA and the Disaster Management Centre, promote regional cooperation by addressing shared challenges through multilateral cooperation.

- (i) E.M.S. Namboodiripad formed the first elected non-Congress government in Kerala in 1957.

- (ii) Syama Prasad Mookerjee was a prominent leader from West Bengal.

- (iii) Jawaharlal Nehru was born in Allahabad, which is in Uttar Pradesh.

- (iv) Rajkumari Amrit Kaur hailed from a princely family in Himachal Pradesh and was India’s first Health Minister.

\begin{quicktipbox
Link prominent historical personalities with their states by remembering key events, movements, or portfolios associated with them.
\end{quicktipbox Quick Tip: Link prominent historical personalities with their states by remembering key events, movements, or portfolios associated with them.

The organisation whose logos are shown in the cartoon is United Nations (UN). The four logos represent different arms or functions of the United Nations, such as UN peacekeeping, humanitarian aid, and diplomatic functions.

\begin{quicktipbox
Look for symbols like the blue and white colours or specific icons that are widely used by international organizations like the UN.
\end{quicktipbox Quick Tip: Look for symbols like the blue and white colours or specific icons that are widely used by international organizations like the UN.

The person shown in the cartoon is George W. Bush, the President of the United States during the Israel-Lebanon conflict of 2006. The cartoon likely reflects his support for Israeli military actions.

\begin{quicktipbox
Political cartoons often use caricatures to represent prominent figures like leaders, with exaggerated features for emphasis.
\end{quicktipbox Quick Tip: Political cartoons often use caricatures to represent prominent figures like leaders, with exaggerated features for emphasis.

Israel attacked Lebanon in 2006 due to Hezbollah's cross-border raids and kidnapping of Israeli soldiers. The Israeli government sought to weaken Hezbollah's military infrastructure and deter future attacks. This escalated into a larger conflict, leading to widespread destruction in Lebanon.

\begin{quicktipbox
The 2006 Lebanon War was a result of ongoing tensions between Israel and Hezbollah, with both sides suffering heavy casualties.
\end{quicktipbox Quick Tip: The 2006 Lebanon War was a result of ongoing tensions between Israel and Hezbollah, with both sides suffering heavy casualties.

The division of British India into India and Pakistan in 1947 was based on the Principle of religious majorities, where areas with a Hindu majority became India, and areas with a Muslim majority became Pakistan.

\begin{quicktipbox
The partition was largely driven by religious divisions, with the aim of creating separate states for Hindus and Muslims, although it resulted in significant violence and displacement.
\end{quicktipbox Quick Tip: The partition was largely driven by religious divisions, with the aim of creating separate states for Hindus and Muslims, although it resulted in significant violence and displacement.

Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel was the first Deputy Prime Minister of India. In addition to being the Deputy Prime Minister, he also served as the first Minister of Home Affairs and played a key role in the integration of the princely states into the Indian Union.

\begin{quicktipbox
Sardar Patel's efforts in integrating the princely states earned him the title of 'Iron Man of India.'
\end{quicktipbox Quick Tip: Sardar Patel's efforts in integrating the princely states earned him the title of 'Iron Man of India.'

At the time of India's independence in 1947, there were a total of 565 princely states that were governed by local rulers. These states were eventually integrated into India after its independence, with the efforts of Sardar Patel and the Indian government.

\begin{quicktipbox
The princely states' integration was a significant challenge during India's independence, with Sardar Patel playing a central role in their peaceful integration.
\end{quicktipbox Quick Tip: The princely states' integration was a significant challenge during India's independence, with Sardar Patel playing a central role in their peaceful integration.

The ruler of Junagadh initially wanted to join Pakistan, not India, despite the majority of the population being Hindu. This led to a dispute, and eventually, Junagadh was integrated into India through military intervention.

\begin{quicktipbox
The issue of princely states like Junagadh and Kashmir was one of the key challenges during the partition of India.
\end{quicktipbox Quick Tip: The issue of princely states like Junagadh and Kashmir was one of the key challenges during the partition of India.

1. Improved Healthcare Infrastructure: India should focus on strengthening its healthcare system, ensuring better healthcare facilities, public health programs, and access to essential medicines in both urban and rural areas. This will help in controlling epidemics effectively.

2. Economic Reforms and Poverty Alleviation: Implementing inclusive economic policies that focus on job creation, education, and skill development will help reduce poverty. Initiatives like the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY) and Swachh Bharat Mission are steps in this direction.

3. Enhanced Security and Counter-Terrorism Measures: Strengthening intelligence agencies, enhancing cooperation with neighboring countries on security matters, and ensuring stricter border security are crucial to combating terrorism. Additionally, counter-radicalization efforts and promoting peace-building measures will help in tackling the root causes of terrorism.

\begin{quicktipbox
Fighting threats like poverty, terrorism, and epidemics requires a multifaceted approach that combines social, economic, and security measures.
\end{quicktipbox Quick Tip: Fighting threats like poverty, terrorism, and epidemics requires a multifaceted approach that combines social, economic, and security measures.

1. Collective Security Arrangements: Traditional security is often based on collective defense arrangements, such as alliances and treaties between states. For instance, NATO is an example of countries cooperating to ensure their mutual security.

2. Bilateral and Multilateral Diplomacy: Diplomatic efforts, such as peace negotiations, treaties, and military cooperation, play a key role in addressing traditional security threats. Cooperation between nations allows for the peaceful resolution of conflicts, as seen in various peace accords globally.

3. Military Alliances and Joint Operations: Cooperation between states through military alliances strengthens traditional security. Joint military exercises and sharing of intelligence and resources help countries to face external threats more effectively.

\begin{quicktipbox
Cooperation is central to enhancing traditional security, as it fosters collaboration between countries to address common security challenges.
\end{quicktipbox Quick Tip: Cooperation is central to enhancing traditional security, as it fosters collaboration between countries to address common security challenges.

1. Rise of Coalition Politics: The 1990s marked the shift towards coalition politics, where no single party could secure a majority on its own. This led to the formation of various coalitions, with key events like the formation of the United Front government in 1996.

2. Economic Liberalization (1991): The economic reforms initiated in 1991 under Prime Minister P.V. Narasimha Rao's government transformed India's economy, liberalizing trade, reducing government control, and opening up the country to global markets.

3. The Ram Janmabhoomi Movement and its Impact: The Ram Janmabhoomi movement, leading to the demolition of the Babri Masjid in 1992, marked a significant shift in Indian politics, highlighting the rise of religious issues in the political sphere.

\begin{quicktipbox
The 1990s were a pivotal decade in Indian politics, witnessing significant shifts in economic policies and the rise of new political forces.
\end{quicktipbox Quick Tip: The 1990s were a pivotal decade in Indian politics, witnessing significant shifts in economic policies and the rise of new political forces.

1. Commitment to Democracy and Secularism: Despite various conflicts, there was broad agreement across political parties on the importance of preserving India’s democratic and secular fabric, especially after the turbulent years of the 1980s.

2. Economic Liberalization: While there were differences on the pace and extent of reforms, most political parties agreed on the need for economic reforms to boost growth, reduce poverty, and integrate India into the global economy.

3. National Security and Stability: All major political parties agreed on the need to ensure national security, particularly in light of challenges from neighboring countries and internal unrest. This led to greater focus on strengthening India's defense capabilities.

\begin{quicktipbox
Despite the political fragmentation in the 1990s, there was a surprising degree of consensus on key national issues, particularly economic reforms and national security.
\end{quicktipbox Quick Tip: Despite the political fragmentation in the 1990s, there was a surprising degree of consensus on key national issues, particularly economic reforms and national security.

1. Non-Alignment Movement (NAM): India, under the leadership of Jawaharlal Nehru, played a key role in the formation of the Non-Aligned Movement in 1961. This movement aimed at creating a platform for newly independent countries to remain neutral during the Cold War, promoting peace and opposing military alliances.

2. Advocacy for Disarmament: India has consistently advocated for global disarmament, particularly nuclear disarmament, and has supported various international treaties aimed at reducing nuclear weapons. India’s stance is rooted in the belief that peace is essential for global stability.

3. Support for Global Cooperation and UN Peacekeeping: India has been a strong supporter of the United Nations and its peacekeeping operations. It has contributed to numerous peacekeeping missions, working towards maintaining global peace and stability.

\begin{quicktipbox
India's foreign policy has always emphasized diplomacy, non-violence, and peaceful coexistence, staying true to its ideals of promoting peace in the world.
\end{quicktipbox Quick Tip: India's foreign policy has always emphasized diplomacy, non-violence, and peaceful coexistence, staying true to its ideals of promoting peace in the world.

1. Support for Decolonization: India supported the decolonization movements in Africa, Asia, and the Caribbean, and it provided political and moral support to nations fighting for independence from colonial powers. India's own struggle for independence influenced its support for the decolonization process.

2. Anti-Apartheid Movement: India was one of the strongest proponents of the anti-apartheid movement, supporting the rights of Black South Africans and advocating for sanctions against apartheid regimes. India’s role was significant in isolating South Africa in the global arena.

3. Promotion of Racial Equality: India played an active role in the formation of international frameworks that promote racial equality, such as the United Nations, where it pushed for greater representation of colonized nations and supported anti-racism resolutions.

\begin{quicktipbox
India’s support for decolonization and opposition to racism is deeply rooted in its own struggle for independence and its commitment to justice and equality for all.
\end{quicktipbox Quick Tip: India’s support for decolonization and opposition to racism is deeply rooted in its own struggle for independence and its commitment to justice and equality for all.

1. Income Inequality: The economic reforms in China have led to increased wealth, but much of the prosperity has been concentrated in urban areas, particularly along the coast, leaving rural areas lagging behind. This has resulted in a significant income gap between urban and rural populations.

2. Limited Access to Social Services: Although China has achieved impressive economic growth, access to social services like healthcare, education, and social security remains uneven. Rural populations, especially migrant workers, often lack access to these services, limiting the benefits of economic growth.

3. Corruption and Unequal Distribution of Resources: Corruption within the political and economic system has led to an uneven distribution of wealth. Local officials and state-owned enterprises often retain disproportionate benefits from reforms, leaving large segments of the population without significant improvements in their living standards.

\begin{quicktipbox
Despite rapid economic growth, China's reforms have led to significant regional disparities, leaving some populations marginalized.
\end{quicktipbox Quick Tip: Despite rapid economic growth, China's reforms have led to significant regional disparities, leaving some populations marginalized.

1. Economic Integration: The European Union (EU) began as the European Economic Community (EEC) in 1957, focusing primarily on economic integration, free trade, and a common market. This economic foundation laid the groundwork for greater cooperation among European nations.

2. Political Integration and the Maastricht Treaty: The Treaty of Maastricht, signed in 1992, marked a significant step toward political integration. It introduced the concept of European citizenship and created a framework for a common foreign and security policy, expanding the EU’s role in political matters.

3. Development of Common Policies and Institutions: Over time, the EU developed a range of common policies, including those on foreign affairs, human rights, and environmental protection. The formation of EU institutions such as the European Parliament and the European Commission further strengthened its political framework.

\begin{quicktipbox
The evolution of the EU from an economic union to a political one reflects its goal of achieving deeper integration and fostering unity among European nations.
\end{quicktipbox Quick Tip: The evolution of the EU from an economic union to a political one reflects its goal of achieving deeper integration and fostering unity among European nations.