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Map of Western Europe
Western Europe is distinguished from Central and Eastern Europe
by geography and by differences of history and culture. The concept
of Western Europe is also associated with liberal democracy; its
countries are generally deemed to be well within the cultural hegemony
of the United States of America.
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Introduction - Western Europe
Western Europe is distinguished from Central and Eastern Europe
by geography and by differences of history and culture. However,
these boundaries are subject to considerable overlap and fluctuation,
which makes differentiation difficult. The concept of Western Europe
is also associated with liberal democracy; its countries are generally
deemed to be well within the cultural hegemony of the United States
of America.
Before the Cold War, "Western Europe" was used to describe
France, Ireland, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, Belgium and
Luxemburg.
During the Cold War, when Western Europe designated the countries
that are part of the NATO treaty and under American influence, the
term was often used as a counterbalance to Eastern Europe that was
under Soviet influence. The borders between Western and Eastern
countries were securely defended, especially on the Eastern side.
These borders were also called the Iron Curtain.
Until recently, Western Europe could safely be said to comprise
the countries of the European Union plus Iceland, Switzerland, Liechtenstein,
Andorra, Norway, San Marino, and Monaco. However, many countries
that are (or were) located in Eastern or Central Europe, such as
Poland and the Czech Republic, are now seeking inclusion into the
European Union. It is likely that the increased economic and cultural
ties with Western European countries will lead to a westward migration
as inclusion occurs. This will lead to yet another change of the
definition of Western Europe in the future.
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