Europe needed help to rebuild and feel secure. American economic strength and Soviet military power gave the two states exceptional influence.
The Cold War was the rivalry between the United States (USA), the Soviet Union (USSR) and their allies after 1945. They competed through aid, political pressure, weapons and alliances rather than a declared war against each other. To understand its origins, start with a damaged Europe: destroyed homes, factories and railways, millions forced from their homes, and shortages of food and fuel. Reconstruction meant rebuilding this economy and daily life. Germany was under Allied military occupation, while Britain and France had been weakened economically.
The USA could produce and lend on a huge scale. It also initially had an atomic monopoly: it was the only country with atomic bombs. The USSR had suffered immense destruction, but its powerful army remained across much of Eastern Europe. Both were superpowers, able to influence events far beyond their own borders, for different reasons. European countries still made choices, but needing outside supplies or protection gave the provider a greater say in their future.
Worked example: How rebuilding a railway could change politics
Consider a government that needs outside help to restore transport after the war.
- A damaged railway prevents food and factory goods from reaching customers. Shortages make people dissatisfied with their government.
- Outside aid can help repair the line and restart deliveries, making recovery and the government seem more dependable.
- The country providing that help gains influence. A practical rebuilding decision can therefore affect which power a government works with.
Watch out for this
The USSR emerged undamaged and as wealthy as the United States.
The USSR lost people, homes and industry on a vast scale. Its army and position in Eastern Europe gave it influence despite that damage; it did not need to match American wealth to be a superpower.
Check your understanding
Why did Europe's wartime damage increase superpower influence?
- Governments needed supplies and protection that the USA or USSR could help provide.
- The Soviet army in Eastern Europe showed that the Soviet economy had escaped serious damage.
- Defeating Germany removed the need for European governments to seek outside protection.