1. Rebuilding Europe and Japan Following its defeat, Japan was occupied by American forces. It soon adopted a democratic form of government Resumed self government Became a strong ally of the U.S.

2. Rebuilding Europe and Japan Much of Europe was in ruins following WWII. Soviet forces occupied most of Eastern and Central Europe and the eastern portion of Germany. Map of Europe

3. The Marshall Plan The U.S. felt it was in its best interest to rebuild Europe and prevent political and economic instability The U.S. instituted George C. Marshalls plan The Marshall Plan provided massive financial aid (money and stuff) to rebuild European economies and prevent the spread of communism

4. Marshall Plan Aid

5. United Nations An organization of independent Countries formed in 1945 to promote international peace and security. Replaced the League of Nations Located in NYC 192 Members – Only 3 countries in the world are not represented in the UN

7. What does this statue represent?

8. Reasons for Rapid Growth of American Economy After WWII 1. With rationing of consumer goods over, business converted from production of war materials to consumer goods

9. 2.Americans purchased goods on credit. 3. The workforce shifted back to men, and most women returned to family responsibilities

10. 4.Labor unions merged and became more powerful; workers gained new benefits and higher salaries. -As labor unions became more powerful, union members were paid more money and received better benefits. 5.As economic opportunity continued and technology boomed, the next generation of women entered the workforce in large numbers. -After WWII, most women returned to the house, but their daughters reentered the work force in large numbers.