Foreign policy Flashcards
(12 cards)
Potsdam Conference was when?
July-August 1945
What was the purpose of the USA aid to European countries after the Second World War?
To protect its economic and political interests in Europe
This aid was offered under the Marshall Plan in 1947.
How did Churchill describe the Marshall Plan?
As ‘the most unselfish act in history’
However, this view is contested as the USA had its own interests.
What was a concern for the USA regarding a bankrupt Western Europe?
It would not be able to trade with the USA and might be susceptible to a communist takeover
This concern motivated the Marshall Plan.
What was the Soviet attitude towards the Marshall Plan?
Negative, but not one of outright rejection
Poland and Czechoslovakia indicated they would apply.
What change occurred in Stalin’s outlook regarding the Marshall Plan?
He learned that credit would only be extended under conditions of economic cooperation
This influenced his decision-making.
Why did Stalin oppose aid being extended to Germany under the Marshall Plan?
He believed it would hamper the Soviets’ ability to exercise influence in western Germany
This was part of the broader geopolitical struggle.
What significant meeting regarding aid took place in July 1947?
A meeting in Paris to discuss the Marshall Plan
Polish and Czech representatives planned to attend.
What happened to the Czech foreign minister during the July 1947 meeting preparations?
He was summoned to Moscow and dissuaded from attending
This indicates Soviet influence over its satellite states.
What trade deal did Poland receive from the Soviet Union?
A five-year trade deal and $40 million of credit
This was part of the Soviet response to the Marshall Plan.
How did the Soviet Union perceive the Marshall Plan?
As a deliberate attempt by the USA to extend their political and economic influence into Western Europe
This was viewed as American imperialism.
What organizations did the USSR establish in response to the Marshall Plan?
COMINFORM and COMECON
COMINFORM coordinated communist parties, and COMECON provided economic assistance to Eastern Europe.
