United States accepted its role as a world superpower.Helped rebuild Japan and EuropeLeading role in establishing the United Nations.*

After WWII most of Europe was in ruins.The Soviet Union occupied most of Eastern and Central Europe and portions of Germany.*

*

In US best interest to rebuildPrevent economic and political instabilityMarshall Planmassive financial aid rebuild Europeprevent the spread of communism.*

Germany:Partitioned into East and West Germany*

West Germany: Democraticresumed self-government after a few years of American, British, and French occupation*

East Germany:Remained under Soviet dominationDid not adopt democratic institutions*

At first, Japan is occupied by American forces.Adopts a democratic governmentResumed self-governmentStrong ally of the United States*

Creation of the United NationsPurpose is to prevent future global wars.*

*Prosperity of the United States

Americans prospered due to an expanding economy stimulated by Americas involvement in the war.*

Businesses converted from production of war materials to consumer goods.*

2. Americans purchased goods on credit.*

3. Work force shifted back to men, most women returned full time to family responsibilities.*

4. Labor unions became more powerful; workers gained new benefits and higher salaries. *

5. Economic prosperity and technology boomed = next generation of women entered the labor force in large numbers.*