Focus on two major developments: Cold War and decolonization.
Both are complex but crucial to understand.
Definition of Cold War
A state of hostility between two states based on ideological struggle, not open warfare.
Specifically, the Cold War refers to the standoff between the United States and the Soviet Union post-World War II.
Background
After World War II, two superpowers emerged: the United States and the Soviet Union.
Despite the Allied victory in WWII, the war left most victorious nations weakened except for the U.S. and Soviet Union.
Reasons for Emergence of Superpowers
Economic Advantages
United States:
Economic recovery from the Great Depression due to wartime production.
Minimal war damage; unlike Europe, US cities weren’t destroyed.
Prosperity led to the ability to assist in European recovery through the Marshall Plan, distributing over $13 billion for economic recovery.
Soviet Union:
State-directed economy grew rapidly even pre-WWII.
Suffered significant war damage but had vast resources and a large workforce.
Pre-war investment in heavy industry aided recovery.
Technological Advantages
United States:
Developed and used atomic bombs, solidifying technological leadership.
Soviet Union:
Quickly developed their own atomic weapons by 1949.
Initiated an arms race, with both powers stockpiling nuclear weapons.
Decolonization
Reversal of the trend of imperialism post-World War II.
Influence of World Wars
World War I:
Millions of colonial troops fought, expecting rewards post-war.
Disappointment ensued as mandate systems enforced continued colonial control.
World War II:
Trigger for decolonization as colonial troops again hoped for independence.
Post-war power shift: weakened imperial states with limited resources to maintain colonies.
Result: massive anti-imperial movements, leading to the creation of approximately 80 new states post-1945.
Conclusion
The Cold War and decolonization were pivotal developments that reshaped global politics post-World War II. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for grasping the global shifts in the mid-20th century.