1. DO NOW
Who won World War 2?
What was the turning point in Eastern Europe which caused Germany to lose?
What was the turning point in Western Europe which led to German defeat?

2. Post WW II
Learning from the mistakes of the past, the United States accepted its role as a world superpower, helping to rebuild Europe and Japan and taking the leading role in establishing the United Nations.

3. Post WW II
Much of Europe was in ruins following World War II

4. Post WW II
Soviet forces occupied most of Eastern and Central Europe and the eastern portion of Germany.

5. The United States felt it was in its best interest to help rebuild Europe and prevent political and economic instability.
Post WW II

6. Rebuilding Efforts 1. The Marshall Plan
The United States instituted George C. Marshall’s plan to rebuild Europe.

7. Rebuilding Efforts 1. The Marshall Plan
Provided massive financial aid to rebuild European economies and prevent the spread of communism.

8. Rebuilding Efforts
2. Germany was partitioned (divided) into East and West.

9. Rebuilding Efforts
West Germany became democratic and resumed self-government after a few years of American, British, and French occupation.

10. Rebuilding Efforts
East Germany remained under the domination of the Soviet Union and was communist

12. Rebuilding Efforts
3. Following its defeat, Japan was occupied by American forces. It soon adopted a democratic form of government, resumed self-government, and became a strong ally of the United States.

13. Establishment of the U.N.
The United Nations was formed near the end of World War II to create a body for the nations of the world to try to prevent future global wars.