US, British & USSR Relations in 1945

Flashcards covering key terms and concepts related to US, British, and USSR relations following World War II, as discussed in the 1945 Yalta and Potsdam Conferences.

Yalta Conference

A meeting held from February 4–11, 1945, where leaders discussed post-war Europe, resulting in agreements regarding Germany and the United Nations.

Spheres of influence

Political and economic dominance over a region, often leading to tensions between countries regarding territorial control.

Self-determination

The principle that nations and peoples have the right to freely choose their sovereignty and international political status.

Declaration on Liberated Europe

A commitment made at Yalta stating that nations liberated from Nazi control would establish democratic governments through free elections.

Percentages Agreement

A secret arrangement between Churchill and Stalin that divided control over Eastern European countries after World War II.

Atomic diplomacy

The use of the threat of atomic warfare to influence the actions of other states; notably associated with Truman's strategies against the USSR.

De-nazification

The process of removing Nazi ideology and influence from German society and government after World War II.

Truman's viewpoint after Potsdam

Truman believed the USSR posed a threat to US national interests and rejected Roosevelt's cooperative approach.

Attlee's character/viewpoint after Potsdam

Attlee shared Churchill's concerns about Stalin's expansionist agenda in Europe and advocated for an anti-Soviet foreign policy.

Post-war reconstruction

The efforts to rebuild nations and economies after the devastation of World War II, including initiatives like the International Monetary Fund and World Bank.