Consequences of the Second WW Cold War

Question 1

What were the immediate consequences of WWII for Germany?

Answer 1

Defeat and occupation, division into four zones (US, UK, France, USSR), and total collapse of the Nazi regime.

Question 2

What international conferences shaped post-war Europe?

Answer 2

Yalta (Feb 1945) and Potsdam (July 1945) – discussed Germany’s future and Eastern Europe.

Question 3

How did WWII contribute to the Cold War?

Answer 3

The USSR and Western Allies emerged as superpowers with opposing ideologies (communism vs capitalism), and tensions over Europe’s future.

Question 4

What was agreed about Germany at Yalta and Potsdam?

Answer 4

Germany would be divided, demilitarised, denazified, and pay reparations – but disagreements quickly emerged.

Question 5

How did Germany become a frontline in the Cold War?

Answer 5

Berlin (in the Soviet zone) was also split; tensions led to events like the Berlin Blockade (1948–49) and eventual creation of FRG and GDR.

Question 6

How did WWII change the global balance of power?

Answer 6

Britain and France weakened, USA and USSR became dominant; their rivalry created a bipolar world.

Question 7

What role did nuclear weapons play in early Cold War tension?

Answer 7

The US use of the atomic bomb in 1945 and USSR’s 1949 test escalated the arms race and deepened suspicion.