The Cold War 2

The Potsdam Conference and Its Aftermath

• Stalin's Control: The Red Army's presence in Eastern Europe resembled occupation; Truman was apprehensive about Soviet influence but lacked military intervention options.

• Atomic Bomb: Truman learned of successful atomic tests; bombs dropped on Hiroshima and Nagasaki led to Japan's surrender without disclosing bombs to Stalin.

• Establishment of the United Nations: Formed in 1945 with 50 countries, including the USSR; Stalin utilized veto power to block initiatives.

Key Developments (1946-1947):

• Breakdown of the Grand Alliance: Percentages Agreement on post-war control established regional divisions.

• Salami Tactics: USSR gradually secured Eastern European control through government supervision and elimination of non-Communists.

• Czechoslovak Elections (1947): Intimidation led to Communist control undermining free elections.

Soviet Pressure in Post-War Europe:

• Iran: Soviet troop presence created tensions; withdrew under pressure.

• Greece and Turkey: Nationalist movements perceived as Soviet-supported heightened tensions.

• Communist Parties in Italy and France: Increased worry in the USA and UK about Soviet influence.

Key Telegrams (1946):

• Kennan's Long Telegram: Emphasized containment of USSR.

• Novikov's Telegram: Expressed concerns of US imperialism.

• Churchill's Iron Curtain Speech (1946): Highlighted Soviet expansion and the division in Europe.

Truman Doctrine (1947): Shifted US policy to support nations resisting oppression. Marshall Plan (1947): Supported European recovery against Communism; rejected by USSR. Soviet Developments: Created Molotov Plan and COMECON to strengthen Eastern European economies.

Czechoslovakian Coup (1948): Soviet-backed takeover increased Cold War tensions. Berlin Crisis (1948): Stalin's blockade of West Berlin triggered airlift responses from Western Allies.