Reading Response 7

Reading Response 7

            In answering any of these questions, it is hard to put anything in a positive light because of the millions of people that died during these two wars. However, there are probably very few changes in human history that have not come about after the death of many people. The world wars were the motor of change for many countries moving forward into the twentieth century.

            Following World War II Great Britain was weak. Although a victor in terms of the outcome of the war the country now had to rise from the ashes and pull itself back together. As Strayer noted that the war had weakened the will and ability of European powers to hold on to their colonies. These colonies were African. Having helped in the war efforts, people from these colonies had seen the way of life in other regions. They had seen how people who before were viewed as better than those in the colonies were really not that different. “Colonial subject everywhere were very much aware of the U.S. president F.D.R. and British Prime Minister W. Churchill had solemnly declared in 1941 that we respect the right of all peoples to choose the form of government under which they will live” (652). This idea even if unintended opened up the door for African nations long held under the thumb of European countries could now make the steps towards independence and democracy.

            Quite possibly the most important change to modern history was the development of the United State as a world superpower. Prior to 1945 the center of the world and the majority of its power had always been East of the Atlantic. Now decimated by two world wars in one generation the United States was left to help Europe. The United States was the only country involved in the war that was left intact. America was now beginning to lend money to Europe in an effort to help in their rebuilding process. As Strayer pointed out this was to make sure there was not a second Great Depression. With Europe getting back on its feet American’s were now in the industrial drivers set with factories being able to make goods to sell over seas. I also think that one could argue that the United States development as a super power began by showing its might in WWI. It was not until America’s evolvement that our allies began seeing more success on the battlefield. If not for the great depression during the 1930’s America may have become the dominant superpower sooner.