Division of Germany, military alliances Flashcards
After the Berlin Blockade, it was clear that Germany was divided. The Allies soon created the FRG (Federal Republic of Germany) - when did they do this?
23rd May 1949 - 3 days after the Berlin Blockade ended.
How did Stalin respond to the Allies’ creation of the FRG?
He formed the GDR (German Democratic Republic) in October 1949.
Which was East/West Germany: FRG, GDR?
FRG = West
GDR = East
When was NATO created?
1949.
Which countries joined NATO in 1949?
USA, France, GB and 9 other western countries.
When was the Warsaw Pact created?
1955.
Which countries joined the Warsaw Pact in 1955?
The USSR, Poland, Czechoslovakia, Hungary, Romania, Bulgaria, Albania and the German Democratic Republic.
What was the purpose of both military alliances?
Defence against potential attack from the other. If a member of one alliance was attacked, all members would come to its assistance.
When did West Germany join NATO?
1955.
Why was the Warsaw Pact created precisely when it was?
There was danger of an armed and powerful West Germany bordering eastern Europe when it joined NATO in 1955. Within a week of this, Stalin formed the Warsaw Pact.
What did the members of the Warsaw Pact become known as?
The Eastern bloc. Was under total command of the USSR.
What was the significance of the creation of the two military alliances?
1) Europe was now clearly divided into two: the side under the protection of the USA, fighting against communism, and the side commanded by the USSR, seeking to spread it. 2) Levels of tension and hostility were raised, due to the competing military stances of the East and West. This continuing competition for military supremacy resulted in the arms race.
