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Cold War Effects

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The Cold War was a geopolitical rivalry that occurred during the 20th Century between the United States and the Soviet Union after the collapse of Nazi Germany in 1945. Tensions between these powers led to the development of new treaties, pacts, and organizations. However, these international relations and conflicts that occurred performed an extremely significant role in the development of the Third World. Throughout this time, drastic political, cultural, and socio-economic upheaval transpired and new governmental structures, decolonization efforts, and nation-building movements were enacted within China, India, Palestine, and Africa.

After the abolishment of Nazi Germany in May 1945, international tensions between the Soviet Union, Great …show more content…

By 1921, India began a series of cultural, social, and political movements in order to achieve independence from oppressive British rule. During this time, the Indian Nationalist Movement rose to extreme prominence, which demanded non-discriminatory laws, equality, peaceful religious relations, and Indian independence. The most notable leader of the Indian Nationalist Movement was Mahatma Gandhi, who was renowned for his ability to lead peaceful civil protests and enact change among the classes. Gandhi denounced the excessive taxation and social discrimination that was taking place. He led various campaigns that resulted in citizens boycotting British products, schools, offices, and government establishments and formulated a constitution that promoted India's development as an independent nation. By the mid-twentieth century, India was able to gain freedom through a nonviolent exchange of power. According to Worlds Together, World Apart, "India achieved political independence involved without an insurrection....Anti-colonial elites in the Indian National Congress party negotiated a peaceful transfer of power from British rule..." (Tignor 756) However, as the development of a national identity continued, religious and cultural conflicts and divides were drastically intensified between Hindus and Muslims. Disputes over which culture, language, religion, and classes would be …show more content…

During this time, ideals such as independence, national self-determination, racial equality, personal dignity, and civil protest were all heavily promoted. The rise of nationalist movements within Africa contributed to a sense of authenticity and furthered decolonization efforts. According to Worlds Together, Worlds Apart, "Shortly after Indian independence, most African states also gained their sovereignty. One reason for rapid decolonization was the fact that nationalist movements had made gains during the interwar period." (Tignor 760). Many ideas from Arab nationalism appealed to African individuals within Algeria(nationalism) Decolonization efforts counteracted existing modern colonization. However, despite the French being initially resistant to decolonization efforts in French-ruled provinces, they resulted in mostly peaceful transfers of power. According to Worlds Together, Worlds Apart, "The French treated decolonization as assimilation...France dissolved its political ties with French West Africa and French Equatorial Africa in 1960." (Tignor

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