Churchill's plans for Post War Europe Flashcards
1
Q
What were Churchill’s 3 main goals?
A
- Special relationship with the USA
- Defence of the Empire
- Greater interest and influence in the Balkans than just west Europe
2
Q
Zurich Speech - 1946
A
Whilst out of office, he spoke to a crowd in Zurich, in which he spoke of greater European Unity. He spoke of a ‘United States of Europe’. Churchill had a history of promoting European co-operation e.g. supporting Ariste-Briands European Union idea in 1930.
3
Q
Why might the idea of a United Europe be contentious?
A
- Europe was still recovering from WW2 and France was angered by Churchill destroying the French fleet and removing British troops.
- Britain was already draining money to the empire and funding an Economic community in Europe would be near impossible when the UK wanted domestic spending.
4
Q
Why might Churchill want a European community?
A
- Stop the spread of communism, prevent conflict, increase economic prosperity and reduce the threat to the empire.
