The Evolution of Political Systems in Europe Post-World War II
Summary
This article explores the evolution of political systems in Europe post-World War II, with a focus on the divide between Eastern and Western Europe during the Cold War. It discusses how anti-communism provided a unifying ideological force in the West, and how the establishment of liberal democracy was necessary for economic growth. The article also covers the struggles of democracy in Southern Europe, as well as the divide between socialism and conservatism that dominated most of Western Europe.
Table of Contents
- The Divide Between Eastern and Western Europe
- Political Constraints During the Cold War
- The Western Half of Europe as a Political Entity
- Struggles of Democracy in Southern Europe
- The Divide Between Socialism and Conservatism
Q&A
Q: How did the Cold War impact the political systems of Europe?
A: The Cold War intensified the divide between the political systems of Eastern and Western Europe, with the Iron Curtain separating the two blocs. Anti-communism provided a unifying force in the West and American influence was a vital factor in shaping Western Europe into a firm bulwark against communism. The political constraints were largely determined by the Cold War, and international bonds were forged and strengthened by the Western defensive alliance in NATO.
Q: How did the establishment of liberal democracy impact economic growth?
A: The establishment of liberal democracy was necessary for the subsequent economic growth of the 1950s and 1960s. However, democracy struggled in Southern Europe due to economic inequality, political violence, and authoritarian rule. Despite these challenges, the overriding priority of defense against communism necessitated American support.
Q: Did all Western European countries have a similar political culture?
A: No, the varied character of nation states in Western Europe and their recent histories and dominant features of political culture determined that there would be far less uniformity in political development than was the case east of the Iron Curtain. Additionally, in the Scandinavian countries, there was a deepening of consensual politics that promoted social cohesion and a network of social services.
Q: What was the legacy of the civil war in Ireland?
A: Ireland reflected the legacy of the civil war, and the Republic was largely dominated by the Catholic Church. On the other hand, Northern Ireland was rigidly divided between the majority Protestants with loyalty to the British Crown and the minority Catholics who were discriminated against in most aspects of life.
Q: What factors contributed to the struggles of democracy in Southern Europe?
A: Factors that contributed to the struggles of democracy in Southern Europe included economic inequality, political violence, and authoritarian rule. However, the overriding priority of defense against communism necessitated American support, which helped to strengthen democracy in the region.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the evolution of political systems in Europe post-World War II was shaped by the divide between Eastern and Western Europe during the Cold War. While the establishment of liberal democracy was necessary for economic growth, democracy struggled in Southern Europe due to various factors. The consolidation of democracy in Western Europe rested on the division between socialism and conservatism. Overall, the political systems of Europe continue to evolve, with new challenges and opportunities shaping the future of the continent.
