The first question that presents itself on the subject is, whether a confederated government be the best for the European Union or not? Or in other words, whether the 27 european states should be reduced to one great republic, governed by one legislature, and under the direction of one executive and judicial; or whether they should continue 27 confederated republics, under the direction and control of a supreme federal head for certain defined national purposes only?
This inquiry is important, because, although the government reported by the convention does not go to a perfect and entire consolidation, yet it approaches so near to it, that it must, if executed, certainly and infallibly terminate in it.
"Brutus", Anti-Federalist papers (adaptado), 1787