The Cold War Begins Allies Become Enemies 1. Post-war Problems – During WWII the Soviet Union and the US worked together – When the war ends old hostilities come back – Both countries had different political view points that did not go together Communism v. Capitalism 1. Communism (USSR- Soviet Union) – Equal distribution of wealth – No private property – Government or workers control the businesses and the means of production – Soviets wanted to spread communism around the globe 2. Capitalism/Democracy – United States – Most businesses and industries are privately controlled by individuals – Competition determines the cost of goods and worker pay – US saw itself as the beacon of freedom in the world Fate of Europe 1. Yalta Conference – Feb 4, 1945 – Conference to decide the postwar fate of Europe – Called for free elections and democracy in the nations liberated from the Nazis – Stalin (leader of Soviet Union) did not agree with this 2. Germany – Western Allies want a united demilitarized and independent Germany – Soviets feared a united Germany would invade their country – Split into 4 parts but later becomes 2 countries – Eastern Germany (Soviet controlled) and Western Germany (democratic and free) 3. Eastern Europe – Free elections agreed on at Yalta did not happen – Soviets establish “satellite states” or governments under the Soviet Unions control Berlin Airlift • Berlin was also divided and in the Soviet section of Germany. • The Soviets decided to cut Berlin off from all western influence and supplies. • Berlin Blockade began in June 1948. • The answer was the Berlin Airlift. From 6/48 until 5/49 the allies flew in all the supplies needed. • The Soviets finally ended the blockade. Co-Super powers U.S. & U.S.S.R. 1. 1st move Soviets – The occupied countries in Eastern Europe are annexed by the S.U. All of these countries make up the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics. 2. Churchill gives a speech in Missouri. In the speech he says “an iron curtain has descended across the continent”. 3. Communist countries are called Iron Curtain countries. 4. Iron Curtain – Winston Churchill uses this phrase to describe what happened in Europe – This imaginary line marked the democratic west on one side and the Soviet controlled east on the other The Marshall Plan • The Marshall Plan was suggested by Sec. of State George Marshall. • It was put into effect to aid Europe in rebuilding from the war. • It was also in place to keep countries from becoming communist. • Millions of dollars were spent on Europe. • Britain, France and Italy got most of the money. • Marshall receives the Nobel Peace prize. A Cold War 1. When – Lasted from 1945-1991 2. What – Cold War = struggle/tensions between the US and Soviet Union over global power – No real face to face war between the two countries 3. Why – US worried the Soviets would try to extend their control – Soviets worried the US would try to take away their power New Organizations • NATO – North Atlantic Treaty Organization. 11 free nations agreed to help each other in case they were attacked. Today there are 26 nations in NATO. • Warsaw Pact – Formed in 1955. It’s a military alliance for Eastern Europe. If any communist country was attacked, the others would help.