Who held the position of President of the European Commission from 2004 to 2014?

José Manuel Barroso served as the President of the European Commission from 2004 to 2014, making significant contributions during his tenure. He focused on implementing key policies in areas such as economic growth, enlargement of the European Union, and climate change. His leadership coincided with the EU's response to the global financial crisis, where he advocated for measures to stabilize the economy and maintain growth within the member states.

Barroso's presidency emphasized the importance of unity among EU member countries and the need for a collective response to challenges facing Europe. This period also saw important developments like the Lisbon Treaty, which aimed to streamline and strengthen the EU’s governance.

Understanding Barroso's impact during his presidency helps illustrate the evolving role of the European Commission in navigating complex political and economic landscapes in Europe. This context reinforces why he is recognized as the correct answer in relation to the role and its timeline.