Origins of the Cold War: Conflict Over Germany - Formation of NATO Flashcards
1
Q
Why did the USA feel the need to create NATO?
A
- Europe was becoming the focal point of the Cold War so the US had to take a more prominent role in developing Europe’s defence system
2
Q
When was NATO signed?
A
- The North Atlantic Treaty was signed on 4 April 1949 for an initial period of twenty years
- Came into force in August 1949
3
Q
Who were the initial members of NATO?
A
- The initial members of NATO were: Belgium, Luxembourg, Canada, the Netherlands, Denmark, Norway, Portugal, Italy, Iceland, France, the United Kingdom and the USA
- This was clearly an alliance of non- communist states.
4
Q
What was the purpose of NATO?
A
- NATO is a North Atlantic–Western European military and political alliance
- Military force would be used for the intimidation towards the USSR and for reassurance for Western states at risk of facing Soviet aggression
- For the US, it was more of a political defence system against the communists, rather than a military organisation
- NATO encouraged the policy of containment
5
Q
What is Article III of NATO?
A
- ‘By means of continuous and effective self-help and mutual aid, [nations] will maintain and develop their individual and collective capacity to resist armed attack…’
6
Q
What is Article V of NATO?
A
- ‘The Parties agree that an armed attack against one or more of them in Europe or North America shall be considered an attack against them all.’
- Suggests possible use of military forces if needed
7
Q
What is Article II of NATO?
A
- ‘The Parties will contribute toward the further development of peaceful and friendly international relations… They will seek to eliminate conflict.’
8
Q
What was the Soviet response to NATO?
A
- 1949 Alexander Panyushkin, the Soviet ambassador to the US wrote a letter about NATO
- Claimed it was an agressive organisation designed to pressurise states into complying with the interests of the US / Britain
- USSR denied trying to attack any European states
