unit 8.1

These flashcards cover key concepts and events related to the Cold War and decolonization as discussed in the lecture notes.

What is a Cold War?

A state of political hostility characterized by threats, propaganda, and other measures short of open warfare.

Who were the 'Big Three' during World War II?

The United States, Great Britain, and the Soviet Union.

What conference took place in Tehran in 1943?

The Tehran Conference, where the Big Three strategized on the war effort and post-war planning.

What was a key issue discussed at the Yalta Conference?

Disagreements on how to handle post-war Germany.

What was the significance of the Potsdam Conference?

It marked discussions regarding the administration of Germany and post-war Europe, and tensions between the U.S. and USSR increased.

What did Stalin agree to during the Yalta Conference?

To help finish Japan and to allow free elections in Poland.

Explain how World War II affected the balance of power globally after the war.

Technological and economic gains shifted the balance of power to the victorious nations.

What was the reason for distrust between the U.S. and Soviet Union post WWII?

The refusal of Stalin to allow free elections in Eastern Europe.

Define decolonization in the context of the Cold War.

The process where colonies gained independence from European powers, influenced by Cold War dynamics.

What were the effects of WWII on Eastern and Western Europe?

Eastern Europe suffered from destroyed infrastructure and heavy losses, while Western Europe was slightly better off.

What was the U.S. position in the world after WWII?

The U.S. emerged as a financially, militarily, and politically strong nation.

What ideology did the U.S. represent during the Cold War?

Capitalism.

What was the primary conflict experienced in the Cold War?

No direct military conflict between superpowers but proxy wars and escalating tensions.

What led to the occupation zones in Germany?

The post-war agreements between the victorious allies regarding Germany's future.

What is the term for the atomic weapon used by the U.S. against Japan?

Atomic bomb.

What marked the transition from WWII to the Cold War?

The growing ideological differences and power struggles between the U.S. and Soviet Union.