Potsdam Conference

When did Hitler commit suicide?

At the end of April 1945.

What happened following Hitler’s death?

A new government briefly took over and signed an unconditional surrender on 8 May 1945.

What did the allies agree to do at the Yalta conference Feb 1945?

Allies agreed to divide Germany into 4 zones.

Who attended the Potsdam conference?

Soviet leader Stalin, US President Truman and British Prime Ministers Churchill and Attlee.

When was the Potsdam conference?

17 July - 2 August 1945.

What were there disagreements about in the Potsdam Conference?

Disagreements between Russia and other Allies over boundaries and reparations, which helped form a divided Germany in the long term.

What was agreed regarding Germany’s administration?

It was to be administered under joint Allied control and was divided into 4 zones of occupation, as was Berlin (finalised after Yalta)

What was to happen to Germany?

It was to be demilitarised, de-Nazified and democratised.

What was to be held in Germany?

Elections were to be held, starting at a local government level, to give Germany the ‘chance to rebuilt its life on a democratic and peaceful basis’.

What did Poland gain from the conference?

Poland gained much former German land; the Oder-Neisse line formed the border between Poland and the Soviet zone of Germany.

Who was returned to Germany?

Germans in Poland, Hungary and Czechoslovakia.

How was the economy to be run?

As one unit, and each occupying force was to take reparations from their zone of occupation.

What was the case due to the Soviet zone having fewer resources?

They were allowed an additional 25% of reparations from the British and American zones.

When did Truman become the US president?

He followed Roosevelt after his death on the 12th April. Was left with an unfinished war and unclear situation as to Europe’s future.

What was Truman first prepared to do?

Prepared to continue with American policies along lines mapped by Roosevelt but less trustful of Stalin because of contrasting views of democracy.

What was Truman waiting for?

Waiting for scientists to bring him news of new weapons test in deserts of New Mexico, which might change his whole standing.