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The Yalta Conference
The Yalta Conference occurs, deciding the post-war status of Germany. The Allies (the USA, the USSR, Great Britain and France) divide Germany into four occupation zones. The Allied nations agree that free elections are to be held in all countries occupied by Nazi Germany. In addition, the new United Nations are to replace the failed League of Nations. -
US President Truman gives permission for the world's second and last military use of an atomic weapon
US President Truman gives permission for the world's second and last military use of an atomic weapon against the Japanese city of Nagasaki in order to try to secure a swift Japanese unconditional surrender in the end of the Second World War. -
US extends $400 million of military aid to Greece and Turkey
US extends $400 million of military aid to Greece and Turkey, signaling its intent to contain communism in the Mediterranean. -
India and Pakistan
India and Pakistan are granted independence by the United Kingdom. -
The Soviet blockade of Berlin ends
The Soviet blockade of Berlin ends ;;
with the re-opening of access routes to Berlin. The airlift continues until September, in case the Soviets re-establish the blockade. -
The Red Scare reaches its peak
The Red Scare reaches its peak, with the naming of numerous American celebrities as members of the Communist Party. -
The Berlin Airlift defeated Russia
June 28 - May 11, 1949 - The Berlin Airlift defeated Russia's attempt to starve West Berlin. -
US President Harry S. Truman fires Douglas MacArthur
US President Harry S. Truman fires Douglas MacArthur from command of US forces in Korea. -
German industrial production
The International Authority for the Ruhr lifted part of the remaining restrictions on German industrial production and on production capacity. -
The United Kingdom successfully tests its atomic bomb
The United Kingdom successfully tests its atomic bomb in Operation Hurricane. The test makes the UK the world's third nuclear power.