Cold War and Decolonization Summary

Moral Duty Against Colonialism: Lal Bahadur Shastri emphasized the need to support the end of colonialism.
Post-WWII Context:
After WWII, desires for greater colonial self-government resurfaced.
Independence movements were linked to the ideological conflict between capitalism (U.S.) and communism (Soviet Union).

Tehran Conference (1943):
Allies planned for post-war; Soviets focused on Eastern Europe, U.S. and Britain on Western Europe.
Agreement on Polish territory adjustments.
Yalta Conference (February 1945):
Roosevelt advocated for free elections in Eastern Europe, Stalin sought control as a buffer against invasion.
Vague commitments on free elections; Soviet promise to aid against Japan.
Potsdam Conference (July 1945):
Truman asserted need for free elections, but occupied regions limited influence.
Distrust between U.S. and Soviet Union heightened.

Destruction in Europe:
40-60 million deaths; heavy losses in Eastern Europe vs. fewer losses in Western Europe.
U.S. emerged with a stronger industrial base while Europe faced devastation.

In 1945, the U.S. became the world’s dominant power, having sustained the least damage.
The Marshall Plan supported European recovery, aiding the U.S. strategic position.
Nuclear arms race initiated with the U.S. and USSR developing atomic and hydrogen bombs.

Post-conferences, U.S.-Soviet tensions led to a cold war with no direct military confrontation.
Proxy wars fueled by superpower rivalry increased global conflict.

Undermining Colonialism:
WWII weakened colonial powers, promoting anti-colonial movements.
Cold War dynamics allowed colonized nations to seek support from both superpowers.
Movements for self-determination gained strength, leading to the dismantling of colonial empires.