The USA's involvement in Europe (3) Flashcards
What role did William Clayton play in the formation of the Marshall Plan?
In MAY 1947, he concluded that the social, economic and political situation in post-war Europe was disintegrating and would continue to without substantial US aid. This conclusion came after his MAY 1947 tour of Western Europe. He also concluded that the downfall of Western Europe would damage the USA economically.
Who was Acheson?
US secretary of state from 1949-1953 who believed strongly in containment in Europe and stopping Communism in Asia. He was one of the planners of the Marshall Plan.
What was the USA’s attitude to Britain?
USA had a ‘special relationship’ with Britain as its strong labour movement and consensus politics meant that there was no left wing influence and the USA could work with them to indirectly influence Western Europe.
When did the Marshall Plan come into effect?
5th June 1947, George Marshall unveiled the plan as the Economic Recovery Plan (ERP). The plan lasted for 5 years and brought $13.5 billion to 16 Western European countries. The money however had to be spent on imported goods from the US and states had to share economic information. It brought about a stable European bloc but was a device of Containment and Dollar Imperialism.
In terms of the Soviets, what did the MP wish to achieve? Give an example.
It was used to stop the spread of left wing or communists movements that could be elected in a deprived Europe. France for example had 1.7 million members in its communist party in 1947, a number that could grow without economic rejuvenation.
How did the Soviets react to the MP?
They saw it as direct American interventionism and Imperialism which would undermine their sphere of influence. In 1947, Hungary and Czechoslovakia were not fully merged communist states and had interest in the MP. This would mean they would be linked to Western Europe via the European Economic Cooperation.
What happened at the 1947 Paris Peace Conference.
In JULY 1947, the Soviet Union walked out of the conference and established Cominform by September. Stalin ordered Hungry and Czechoslovakia to reverse their interest in the MP.
USA involvement in Germany
Jan 1947 - Bizonia with Britain
June 1948 - Deutsche Mark - Led to blockade
What was the Soviet response to US intervention in Germany?
In november 1947, Zhdanov said the US intended to make a ‘Western Bloc’ with Germany at its centre as a US protectorate.
What did Kennan believe about Germany?
That a divided Germany would be a long term burden for the USA and that only a united Germany would see the relaxation of US control.
What were other US opinions on Germany?
That a divided Germany was better than a united Germany under Soviet control. The independence gained by a united Germany could lead to economic dominance in Europe. US influence was easily kept in a divided Germany.
Other Truman doctrine example?
Stalin wanted control of the Dardanelles - Truman made sure Turkey stayed stable to spite him. Turkey recieved $100 million in economic and military aid.
