Student Question
What were the goals of the Allied nations after WWII?
Quick answer:
After WWII, the Allied nations aimed to establish lasting peace, leading to the creation of the United Nations in 1945 to mediate international conflicts. The Allies had differing goals: the Soviet Union sought to expand its influence and create buffer states in Europe, while the United States and Britain advocated for democratic governance and capitalism. These conflicting objectives contributed to the onset of the Cold War.
This is a great question. There were many goals. In view of this, let me name some of the most important ones. However, it is important to note that not all allies agreed on what to do after the war. This is partially why there was a Cold War right afterwards.
First, I think it is safe to say that all wanted peace. After World War I and II, people were sick of war. World War II was seen as a war that would end all wars. This was why the UN was established in 1945. It's purpose was to mediate between nations. It replaced the League of Nations, which was useless.
Second, Russia wanted to take parts of Europe in view of their effort in the war. They wanted a buffer state. They wanted a part of Europe to be a agrarian state. In short, Stalin wanted to increase his influence.
The United States, on the other hand, wanted to great a democratic system of government with capitalism to be at the center. England also wanted free elections in Eastern Germany immediately. From this point, we can see that there was an immediate difference of opinions and the beginning of the Cold War.
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