Current Events Review. Vol. II, Nos. 3&4 September-October 1946

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Part of Current Events Review

Title: Current Events Review. Vol. II, Nos. 3&4 September-October 1946
Issue Date: Vol. II (Nos. 3&4) September-October 1946
Year: 1946
Language: English
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extracted text: A News Magazine Published for High !!chool Students Devoted to the Seleetion, Organization, Presentation, and Review of Current N ewe for Lessons in Current Events. n t'bis issue- - Peace Problems ol Europe . . . . . . . . .. .. . .. .. .. . .. .. . Peace Problems of the Middle East l~ace Problems of the Far East . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 United Nations Activities . . . . . ... . . . . . Ruum:. Iron Curtain in Eastern Europe The Problem ol Palestine .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. . .. . .. .. .. .. .. .. .. • • .. ... .. ffil!Ji11hts lrom the AddreSB of President Roxas ..... .. . ...... .. .. .. .. , ... .. . What shall we do with lhe atom? ..... . .. .. ..... ..... .... ............ ... . , Bikini Atomic Bomb Te1b .. .. .. . .. .. . .. .. .. . .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. . .. . .. .. .. . The Rise and Fall i>I the Japanese Empire .. . . . ... . . ... . ....... . .. . ... .. . . .. . * * * Signilicant World News Roundup . . . . . . . ... . ... .. . .. . .. ... .. Slgnificant Name• kt Contemporary N~ws PbMippine News in Review ..... .. ... .... . ... ..... .. .. .... ...... .. .. .. .. Science Marches On .. .. .. .. .. .. .. . .. . .. .. .. .. .. .. .. . .. .. .. .. .. .. ... ... . . li'i:onomia ht the News , . . .. .. . . . . .. . .. . .. .. .. , .... , .. . .. . . ... . , .. . . . . 1iiportant Historical Document ....... The Surrendel'. Instrument lor Japan ..... . . . Vol. II, N-3 & 4 DEAR FELLOW INSTRUCTORS: We take pleasure in presenting to you a news magazine approved by the Department of Instruction for general use in public high schools and recommended by the Catholic Education Association for use in all Catholic institutions, - the CURRENT EVENTS REVIEW. It is a magazine primarily intended to enable the history instructors to save much of their precious time, either for more profitable endeavors or for a much needed leisure to keep their health, by making available in one short reading up-to-date and complete current events materials gathered from about sixty different sources by competent educators. But, above this practical help, we hope the magazine to give the instructor the necessary equipment that would lend him personality and self-assurance in the dassroom as well as in society. For, it cannot be gainsaid that the thoroughly informed are highly respected. And the CURRENT EVENTS REVIEW is published primarily for this end. One reading the Current Events Review finds that* The materials are presented in accordance with the specific learning objectives, as practised in Philippine public schools. * The materials are carefully selected and organized according to plan. (The organization is based on Madison Cathay's "Major Objectives in Teaching Current Events," Historical Outlook, Vol. XXIV (Oct. 1933), pp. 319-324. * The materials are divided into thirty-two lessons-one lesson a week throughout the school year. * The materials are so presented as to make the students realize that the current events lessons should be studied in terms of useful knowledge, skills, habits, and appreciation. * In addition to dassroom materials, the magazine presents the significant views, analyses, and interpretations of outstanding world leaders in all fields of learning and endeavors. * Any copy of the Current Events Review has at least two hundred items of varied materials for current history. * The lessons are in reality permanent notes on current history, either for dassroom purposes or for mental growth. * The selection of the materials bears the stamp of scientific educational planning and the style of the presentation of the facts and ideas is pleasantly easy and immediately dear. * The magazine is a happy answer to the hopes of instructors-maximum proficiency and efficiency with the least mental effort and with the least expense in time and money. Please, remember that we do not mean to tell you. Read a copy and you will be convinced. We know yours is for the noble and unselfish service to the country, and we should like you to know that ours is also for the mental growth and health of those who are "oble and unselfish in serving the country. Give us the pleasure to serve. 123 Reten, Sampaloc, Manila, October 25, 1946. Sincerely yours, The Current Events Review by D. R. Manlapaz Publisher Why are there conflicting interests in the solution of peace problems? PEACE PROBLEMS OF EUROPE After the War--What? Preston Slosson, Professor of Modern History in the University of Michigan,. in a book he wrote in 1943 entitled After the War-What? explained that there would be many unsolved problems as a result of the war. To prove his point he gave examples of unsolved problems after the end of World War I. He discussed why some of these problems were indirectly th~ causes of World \Var II. When the war in Europe ended on V-E Day, MaY 7, 1945, the world \vas thrilled. The biggest, costliest, and ugliest war in history was over, and men immediately looked forn•ard to a life of peace. They dreamed of a world where they could live in their own free ways. They expected the actual fulfillment o{ the "four essential human freedoms." But to the leaders of nations in charge of drafting peace treaties:, the picture did not appear so [[ID f!}l~fJ!t~~16S § 'iJ!JJ:/f//,1/~.rs liii • V/fSrp!Jf ~Joe. ,. World Problems bright. It is true that they have seen the destruction of two kinds of dictatorship-the dictatorship of Hitlerite Germany and that of Fascist Italy. But they are now faced with the big problems of reconstruction in Europe. These problems are not merely politicalf but economic and educational as well. The very same question which confronted ~he peace makers of World War I now confronts them: We won the war, shall 'we win the peace? Conflicting Ideologies The United States, Great Britain, and Russia had one common goal during the war. This goal was the destruction of the Axis powers. When the war came to an end the world hoped to see the continuation of harmonious relations among the three Allied countries in the solution of international problems. But a difference of ideologies has been a great obstacle to such relationship. Democracy as understood in the United States or Great Britain does not find acceptance among the Soviets. On the other hand, Communism as practiced in Russia is frowned upon by the democracies. Europe has thus become· a new "battle ground" for two ways of liv1 ing-the democratic and the communistic. Immediate Effects of These Conflicts Russia does not want any kind of threat to her security. This is understandable, especially in the case of a nation that has lost 7 ,000,000 men in World War II and has suffered untold destruction. For some reason or other the Russian leaders fear an invasion by "capitalistic" powers. During the last Red Army Day celebration, Marshal Josef Stalin reminded his people to. prepare a"gainst any such invasion. Her desire to be secure is probably the most important reason why Russia has built an "iron curtain"-frieridly nations at her European border, from Stettin to Trieste. The United States and Great Britain are themselves firmly determined to carry out the princiPles of the Atlantic Charter. They want the European countries to _choose their own form of government according to the freely expressed will of their people. They do not want to see Russia dominate the whole of Europe because that would mean exchanging Communism for Nazism and Fascism. Therefore, they are exerting efforts to check Russian expansionis.m. General Characteristics of Peace Problems administration of colonies owned .by the Axis, and the internationalization of waterways. Specific Peace Problems There are specific peace problems of Europe which clearly show the conflict of interests and aspiratio~ of the major powers-the United States, Great Britain, Russia, and France. These peace problems have to do with Italy, Germany, the Balkans, Trieste, Turkey, and other places. ITALY The Foreign Ministers of the United States Britain, France and Chi~a m~t in London last yea; to discuss the preparation~ of a peace treaty to replace the provisional Italian peace treaty conc1uded in September,· 1943 when Italy surrendered unconditionally to the Allies. Conflicting questions: In the discussion of the Italian peace treaty, many questions came up. One of them was the question of reparation payinents. During the London Conference, Russia insisted that Italy should pay 600 million dollars as reparation. The United States and Britain opposed this Russ:an demand because they believed that Italy was not in a position to do so. The same question was again taken up in the Pa:ris Conference among the United States, Great Britain, Russia, and France. Another difficult question discussed both in the London and the Paris Conferences of the Foreign Ministers is the administration of Italian colonies. These Italian colonies-Lybia, Eritrea and Somaliland-iie along the lkitish "life lin~," Which extends from England down through the Atlantic Medit-erranean, Suez Ganal, Red Sea, and the Indian The main peace problems of Europe are econom- Ocean to India. In the beginnirig, Russia wanted ic, political and territorial. Devastated Europ~ to be the sole trustee or administrator of the Italian needs reconstruction so that the different countr;es colony of Tripolitania in western Lybia. During the in it' destroyed by t:he war could resume their normal Paris Conference of the Foreign Ministers, however 1 functions. Economic reconstruction is essential to she suggested that the Italian. colon.ies be placed unworld peace. der the trusteeship of the United Nations. Thi$ Europe likewise needs political stability. Im- proposal· is still advantageous to Russia, for she mediately after the end of the last war, th~re were would be able to get control of Tripolitania. Later established twelve provisional governments in liber- -on May IO, 1946,-she abandoned her claim for ated Europe and former Axis states. Some of these trusteeship in favor of the French proposal. Under governments have already been changed as a re- the French proposal, an Italian would administer the suit of recent elections. In sopie countries where colony under the trusteeship of the United Nations. elections have been held, the agreements reached at The original, demand of Russia for trusteeship the Yalta and Potsdam conferences .have been ful- over T-ripolitania was opposed by the United States filled. Both conferences stipulated that the provi- and Britain during the London Conference. Both sional governments must be democratic. In some countries held the opinion that the Italian colonies other countries, however, the governmehts are still should be ·placed under neutral administrators who considered by the United States and Great Britain will report to the United Nations. ~s "undemocratic" and "totalitarian." \Vhat is behind these conflicting interests?The territorial question also hinders t,he solu- ff Russia should get a foothold on Tripolitania, she tion of the peace problems of Europe. At present would be in a strategic position, and the British there are about 30 territorial boundary disputes "life line" in the western Mediterra:_nean would therefacing the Allies. Most of these are found in south- by be greatly endangered. Again, if the United ern. Europe. Territorial questions include the re- States and Great Britain should accept the Russian storation: of former frontiers between states, the (Continued on the next. page.) 2* .~~~~~~~--~~~~~~~~W'~o-r-ld~P-r-ob-l~em.s demand that Italy should pay a reparation of 600 million dollars, Italy would become a weak nation. This will be contrary to the policy of both countries, for they want a strong Italy. A strong Italy, according to former Prime Minister Churchill, is necessary in order to bolster the cauSe of democracy in Europe. GERMANY The fate of Germany was settled at the Potsdam Conference which outlined the extent of Allied control over the country. Germany is now occupied by the United States, Britain, Russia, and France. Conflicting interests: The United States, Britain, and France are united against Russia in regard to the political development of Germany. Russia is bent on 41communizing" her zone of occupation because this zone lies near the "iron curtain" she is building in Eastern Europe. She believes that her success in this respect would further strengthen he~· security frontiers. .flowever, the democracies are opposed to having Communism dominate in Germany. They want a democratic German~r in the postwar world. In fact, they are now re-educating the Germans in their zones of occupation along the ways of democracy. Russia, the United States and Britain want a centralized control of Germany. France, however, opposes this. At least, she wants the question of the Ruhr and the Rhineland definitely settled first. What is behind these. conflicting interests? - Generalissimo Stalin, in his February Russian election day speech, warned his people to be ready against any threat from "capitalistic" powers. By· these pOwers, he meant the Western democracies. Russia believes that her security in Europe could be advanced if the Germans are not united in their political ideas of government or in their economic ways of living. The United States, Brita!n, and France, on the other hand, want a democratic Germany whose people would be able to resist the infiltration of Russian political and economic ideologies in Central Europe. France wants an immediate solution of the Ruhr and Rhineland problems because these regions were once the "arsenals" of H.itlerite Germany. THE BALKANS A brewing point of World War III, in the opinion of Leon Dennen who wrote T"rouble Zone, published in 1945, is the Balkans. In this region, according to him, "the great Spiritual irnd political drama of the postwar world is now being enacted in an atmosphere of boundless cynicism and greed." The Balkans have always been the "powder keg" of Europe. World War I had its origin in Serbia, one of the countries in the Balkans. During the period of World War II, Hitler tried to bring the Balkans within the ·Nazi orbit before attacking Russia. The German leader realized the i~portance of the region in his drive to build the Third Reich. World Problems Conflicting interests: During the early phase of World War II in Europe, Hungary, Rumania, and Bulgaria fell under the sway of Nazism. These countries had to fight on the side of Hitler. During the later phases of the War, Russia succeeded in liberating them from their Nazi masters. And as soon as she had liberated them, Russia lost no time in seeing to it that they established provisional governments "friendly" to her. The Yalta and Potsdam Conferences stipulated that the provisional governments in all the countries liberated by the Allies mµst be democratic. During the London Conference of Foreign Ministers, the United States, Britain aTid France told Russia that the governments of Hungary, RU.mania, and Bulgaria were not democratic. Russia insisted, however, that the governments of these count:z:ies were democratic. The London Conference failed to solve the question. The same question was taken up dul"ing the Moscow Conference of the Big Three-the United States, Britain, and Russia. At this conference, Russ:a agreed to broaden the governments mentioned so as to give representation to parties other than the Communists. What is behind these conflicting interests?There is a very important reason why Russia would not allOw the government of Hungary, Rrlmania, and Bulgaria to become democratic immediately. She would not allow them to become such, at least not until after they had signed the peace treaties, because if she would, the chances are that the democrat:c governments so established would refuse to sign peace treaties favorable to Russia alone. On the other hand, the United States, Britain and France would like to see a democratic Hungary, Ru-, mania, or Bulgaria before the Allies signed peace treaties with them. The democracies are waiting for Russia to comply with the agreement reached during the Moscow Conference held in December, 1945 in which she consented to broad~n the governments of Hungary, Rumania, and Bulgaria. TRIESTE One of the most disputed questions that brought to light the conflict of interests of the major powers in postwar Europe is the disposition of Trieste. The final· solution of Trieste will determine the relations between Italy and Yugoslavia. Conflicting interests: Trieste is a port located 3.t the head of the Istran Peninsula in Italy. It is populated mostly by Italians. It is wanted both by Yugoslavia and Italy. Russia wants to give Trieste to Yugoslavia. The United States and Britain, however, want to give it to Italy. The question was thoroughly discussed by the Foreign Ministers during the London and Paris Conferences. What is behind these conflicting interests? - Trieste plays an important role in the seaward traffic of the Balkans. Much of the overseas commerce (Continued on page 5) • :1 Why is the world concerned with the various peace problems of the Middle East? PEACE PROBLEMS of the MIDDLE EAST What is the JUiddle East? Brewing Point for World War herself. Politically, the Middle East Ill. Since 1942, Russia has taken begins from the Dardanelles and The clash of the big powers an active interest in the oil of en<l.s deep in Central Asia at a in the Middle East is a clash or Iran. She watches with great point where Russia, Afghanistan, rivalry for oil, military bases, concern the expansion of the and Tibet meet. The Middle East air routes, an,d "spheres Of in- British and American oil investis composed of Afghanistan, fluence." ments. To make her stand strong, Arabia, Baherein Isles, Iraq, Iran, in April, 1946, Russia signed with Turkey, Palestine, Trans-Jordan, Rivalry for Oil Iran an agreement forming a Syria .and Lebanon. The three Fo'rmer Secretary of the United joint Soviet-Iranian oil company Mnst important of these countries States Navy Frank Knox said to develop the oil regions of norththat the greatest pool of oil in the ern Iran. Th~ United States and world is found in the Middle East. Britain, l'i.owever, are also seeking In 1945 alone, the total number new oil concessions in the same reof barrels of crude oil produced by gion. &re Tu-rkey, Iran or Persia, and Afghanistan. According to the world census of 1941-1942 in the League of Nations Yearbook, the total population of the Middle East was about 50 million. The total area of the, Middle East is greater than that of the whole Europe excluding Russia. The Middle East is noted in history for its having been the seat of great anoient civilizations-Babylonian, Assyrian, Chaldean, Persian, Heb.rew, Syrian, and Phonecian. roday, the Middle East has again attracted world attention, no longer for its civilization but for its being the object of international rivalries. General Characteristics of Conflicts David J. Dallin's recent book, The Big Three, published in 1945, presents a thorough discussion of the rivalries of the three. major powers of the world. The specific objectives of the United States, Russia, and Britain in the Middle East are analyzed. The author clearly shows how and why the Middle East is a serious sore spot in the relations of nations. "The interests of the great po\\rers,' writes David J. Dallin, "clash here v.rith a force comparable only to the clash of their antagonisms in the Far East or in Central Europe." The same observation has been m~de by Leon Denne in his book, Troubl6 Zone: 4* the oil firms of Britain, the United States, France, and Holland, reached 214 milllon. Motives of Rivalries.- No one can imagine the wealth of Iran in terms of oil. Her resources have become ·the underlying cause for economic rivalries among the big powers. Britain needs the oil of Iran. The United States needs the oil of Iran to prevent the using of her oil supply at home. Russia regards with great concern and envy, the exploitation of these oil regions just south of her border. What is the Significcin:e of These Rivalries?-During World War II, the government of Iran made it a policy not to grant any oil concessions so long as foreign armies were in her territory. But the United States and Britain prior to the enunciation of this policy, had already acquired and extensive hold on the oil fields of Iran and those of other countries in the Middle East. Russia did not like the rapid expansion of British and American interests in. Iran. Russia feared United States and Britain might move north close to her southern border; for, the presence of these two great powers close to her southern border would endanger her security, Furthermore, Russia would like also to have concessions for Rivalry for Bases Nature of the Rivalry.-There are two main reasons fov the rivalry among the great powers for bases in the Middle East. United States and Britain maintain their bases in the Middle East for the protection of their ecOnomic interests as well as for the strategic value.of the bases. The United States maintain an air base at Cairo, at Habbaniya, at a strategic place near Bagdad, and, at another place near Basra on the Persian Gulf. She has also acquired the right to use the airfield in Saudi Arabia. Britain must keep and. develop her bases in the Middle East to protect her eastern "life line" which has greatly weakened with the withdrawal of her troops from Egypt. What is the Significance of the Rivalry? - Russia is the only European power that has no bases in the Middle EaSt, although she knows that the acquisition of bas~s in the Middle East is essential to her security. During the London Conference and also during the Paris Con,ference of the Foreign Ministers of the major powersthe United States, Britain, Russia, France, and China-Russi::!. insisted on acquiring bases on tTie DDdecanese Islands. Russia also deWorld Problems manded certain regions from to believe that so long as there is Turkey near the Dardanelles. Her econoinic rivalry among nations main reason for these demands is there will always be rivalry for to protect her "life line" along the bases. Black Sea. United States and excuse to insure her security in northern Iran. Russia is trying to maintain closer contact with the Moslerns of Palestine. She has, in fact, succeeded in establishing cordial relations with the Zionist groups in Palestine. To gain her end, Russia even capitalizes ori the anti-British ·feelings among the Arabs. Britain opposed Russia's demands Rivalry for Spheres of for bases on the Dodecanese Influence Islands because such bases would endanger Britain's "life line" in Eastern Mediterranean, Nature of Rii1alry.-The rivalry for oil concessions, bases, and Rivalry for Air Routes ~~=e:~i~~eai;i~~~;; ~:/~~sp~;;;: Study Helps Nature of the Rivalry.-The of infh.1ence." Each major power 1. From your study of Wo1·ld rapid development of air travel naturally wants to protect its int- History, cite exaIDples to show has an important beai-ing on the erests, investments, and "weh that the Middle East played an promotion of world peace .. Before fare" in the Middle East; and the important role in the making of the war, the air routes in the "sphere of influence" is the best civilization. Middle East were operated by possible protection. 2. Is the Middle East a possible Britain, the Netherlands, Ger- The influence of Britain in The brewing point for World \Var III? many, and France. The United Middle East is strong on several Why? States has now also become inter- countries, especially on Egypt, 3. Russia wants security. Is the ested in the development of air Iraq, Palestine and Trans-Jordan. Iranian-Russian oil company a routes in the Middle East, Likewise, the United States has mere excuse to secure protection What is the Significance of the established friendly relations with for her borders"! Rivalry?-The rivalry for air Saudi Arabia. Russia has renewed 4. Why is there a rivalry for bases in the Middle East is both the establishment of cordial rela- bases? tions with Syria, Lebanon, Iraq, · 5. Are you in favor of placand Iran. ing the whole Middle East under economic and military. For, a firm hold on strategic commercial air routes gives a nation many advantages in case of emergency,i This was the reason that Adolf Hitler placed all civil and commercial air routes under t1ie control of the government in violation of the Treaty of Versailles. There is, theuf.ore, every reason What .is the Significance of the Rivalry ?-Russia is very much concerned with her security in the l\'Tiddle East, particularly, on the bo1·der separating her from northern Iran. The, formation of the Soviet-Iranian Oil Company concluded in April was merely an the United Nations Trusteeship Council? Why? 6. What is the best way of solving the peace problems in the Mid: die E'!st? 7. Use foe foil owing terms correctly: rivalry, "ljfe line/' and "sphere of influence." Peace Problems of Europe (Continued from page 3) from Austria, Czechoslovakia, Hungary, and Yugoslavia needs Trieste. If Trieste is given to Yugoslavia, then the ,Russian position in the Balkans would be !)trengthened, because Yugoslavia lies in the Russian "sphere of influence." The United States and Britain would like Trieste to be in Italian hands to keep off Russian hegemony in the Balkans. TURKEY Turkey has become an important problem be· cause of Russian demands. This country occupies a unique position connecting as she does the Medi· terranean, the Black Sea, Europe, the Middle Eastt and the Balkans. '1This ~strategic position" writes Leon Dennen, uonce a bridge for conquerors pass. fog from Asia to Europe and today the barrier be· tween the Soviet-dominated Balkans and the British Middle. East, represents Turkey's greatest danger." Conflicting interests: Turkey is at present the World Problems c;ustodian of Dardanelles. As such she is in a position to bottle up the Russian fleet in the Black sea. Russia knows this and realizes the importance of the Dardanelles to her security. She also real· izes that -she must strengthen her position in the eastern Mediterranean. Accordingly, she wants to revise control of the Dardanelles. Lately she has asked for the return of Kars and .A~dahan or Armenian Turkey, which she claimed were taken from her after the end of World War I. Russia is also interested in the military control of the Dodecanese Islands. These islands control the approaches toward Russia through the Aegean Sea and the Dardanelles. What .is behind these conflicting interests? - Russia has klready built an "iron curtain" from the Baltic Sea to the Black Sea. Now she would like to control the Dardanelles to make her position in the entire eastern Mediterranean secu~e. Britain is opposed to Russia's military control of the Dodecanese Islands· because it would endanger the British ulife line" in the eastern Mediterranean. (Continued on ~he next page) Peace Problems of the FAR EAST Need for the Study of Sore Spots "There shall not, there must not be," writes David J. DaHin in his recent book The Big Three: The United States, Britain, Russia "a Third World War. The Pile of c~rpses of those who died in this war already reach the sky. Of ruin we have enough. Of misery we have more than one generation can endure." David J. Dallin points to the need of a realistic appraisal of our new world, the dynamic forces which are active in it, and Of the dange"rs which threaten at each turn. "Sore spots must be studied, diseases must be called by their names. Their is no greater crime against peace than willful shortsightedness in international affairs." Peace-makers the world over are apprenhensive of the fact that the mistakes of the first World War might be committed again. The victorious nations have failed up to now to make peace secure for our time. This situation is analogous to that after the first World War. The Allies won the first World War but they failed to win an enduring peace. And their failure to secure peace allowed the seed of the se~ond World War to grow. Today there are sore spots in various parts' of the world which should be understood and studied in order to pre':"ent another global armed conflict. The present article discusses the peace problems Of the Fa:r East.· Post-War Japan Post-war Japan has attracted the attention of the world because of the great political experiment going on in that nation. The Allies are determined to Peace Problems of Europe (Continued) Other Ticklish Peace Problems There are other important peace problems to, be settled. They demand careful solution because they might be the "seeds of future conflicts." Among these peace problems are: .1. Shall France have the Italian villages of Briga and Tenda? These two Italian vil~ages are near· Mentone. 2. Shall the Ruhr's coal and iron industry, the two important industries of· Hitlerite Germany, be internationalized? France fears that if· these two industries are given back to Germany, the latter might again become a menace to the peace of Europe. 3. Shall there be some form of control for the Rhineland? France fears that the Rhineland might again become the springboard from which she might be attacked by a resurrected Germany. 6* make Japan a democratic nation. Japan is being given all the chances to become a dignified and respected member of the family of nations. Concrete measures it.re being taken to develop constitutional democracy. in Japan. Frederick M. Watkins in his article 14 Prospects of Constitutional Democracy,. predicts the success of democracy in Japan. He says, "To a far greater extent than any othe.,r non-European people, the Japanese already have shown the ability by their own efforts to lay the foundations of an imperfect but substantial constitutional democracy." Conflict of interests.-The Allied occupation of Japan has developed into an inevitable conflict of interests between the democracies and Russia. This eonflict centers more or less on political and ideological views. This conflict is sometimes openly shown in the meetings of the Far Eastern Commission. The Far Eastern Commission was established by the Big 3 Moscow Conference last DecE:mber. It is composed of 11 members representing the: United States, Russia, Britain, China,, France, the Nether!ands, Canada, Australia, India, New Zealand, and the Philippines. The FEC determines and carries out the Allied policies on Japan. The discussion of these policies has revealed the fundamental conflict of interests between the democracies and Russia .. In one of the meetings of the Allied Control Council, for ex:;i.mple, Lt. Gen. Kuzma Dere:vyanko proposed a labor program for Japan. The plan was openly opposed by Chairman George Atcheso~, Jr., on the· ground that the plan seeks to communize Japan. Again, on 4. Shall the Danube be internationalized? Russia fears that internationalization of the Danube would m·ean non-Russian ships would· be allowed to sail it and thus endanger her security. 5. Shall Teschen be given to Czechoslovakia or to Poland? 6. Shall Carinthia be taken from Austria and be given to Yugoslavia? 7. How shall the Transylvanian frontier between Hungary and Rumania be settled? 8. Is the giving of southern Tyrol to Italy justified? 9. How much of Venezia Giulia should be given to or go with dispu'ted Trieste? 10. Is the incorporation of the three Baltic states-Esthonia, Latvia, and Lithuania-into the Union of the Soviet Socialist Republics justified? Is not such incorporation a violation of the Atlant1c Charter? World Problem~ another occasion, the Russians questioned th(~ right of Gen. MacArthur to hold the first free election in Japan on the ground that Japan was not prepared for .it. Gen. MacArthur told the Rus;;ians that Japan was prepared for the election. Late-· ly, when Russia indicated that she would demand for reparation from Japan, the Unit~d States made Russia understand that she would oppose Moscow's demands for reparations from Japan. What is behind these conflicts?-The United States is not in favor of allowing Russia to spread communism in Japan. Genei'al MacArthur issued specific orders to make Japan a free and democratic country. Simultaneously, an editorial of The New York Times charged Russia of spreading communism in Japan in violation of the order of General MacArthur. Russia, however, is determined to extend her politicS.l, military, and economic influence to Japan. Post-War Korea Post-war Korea faces a serious economic problem. This is so, because Korea is at present occupied by Russia in the north and by the United States in the south. This division of the country for military purpose is economically disadvautageous to the Koreans. Conflict of interests.-The Big 3 Moscow Conference specifically states that a provisional government should be formed to prepare the Koreans for eventual independence. The Anglo-Soviet Commission held several conferences to discuss the formation o~ the provisional government but, it failed to arrive at any concrete proposal. The Russians have refused to remove the 38th parallel division of the country. This division prevents the Koreans from having a united economic life. What is behind these conflicts?-The suggestion of Lt. Gen. John Hodges to remove the 38th paraflel would greatly benefit the Koreans economically. The Russians have so far refused to do so. The Commission appointed to discuss the plan for the provisional government. of Korea also failed to arrive at a concrete proposal because of the conflicting ideologies of Russia and the Unitea States. There are two parties fighting ~ gain leadership in the future administration of Korea. The Korean Leftists or Communists tire trying to convince Russia that they have a large following in Korea. The Rightists are trying to convince tlie United States military commission that they are for democratic principles. Manchuria On August 26, 1945, the terms of the Soviet. Sino treaty of alliance were made public. According to the terms of the treaty Russia woul respect "Chinese sovereignty in Manchuria. Russia World Problems made the declaration that she is ready to give moral support and assistance to China. In return for this moral support, Russia gained a joint SinoSoviet administration of a unified Manchurian railway system and acquired the use of Port Arthur as a naval base to be used jointly with· China. Russia was also able to make Dairen a free port. In this treaty, the Chinese government declared its willingnesa to recognize the independence of Outer Mongolia should the people show in a plebiscite that they desire independence. Conflict of interests.-Various writers predicted that Manchuria might become the brewing point of World War III. Manchuria was restored to China according to the provision of the Cairo Conference of the Far Eastern allies - the United States, Britain, and China, - in 1943. The Russians, however, desire to keep Manchuria weak so as to make her border safe from attack by " powerful neighbor. The United States takes the opposite view. She desires that the rights of the Chinese be respected. What is behind the conflict?-When Russia failed to evacuate Manchuria as she had agreed to do, the Chinese protested and held demonstrations demanding that Russians quit Manchuria. Again, when Russia began a systematic stripping of the industrial plants in Manchuria, the Ut\ited States warned Russia that the industrial machineries were not included as a war booty in the agreement signed by the Big Four. Russia's aim in stripping Manchuria of her industrial plants is mainly to make Manc:tiuria weak. !30 as to make Siberia secure from a possible thred.t from a powerful neighbor. It cannot be denied, however, that Russia wants the machineries to hasten the rehabilitation of her own industries. Post-War China A new China is emerging. But this new China is still faced by the problem of national unity. The Nationalists and the Communists . are still fighting. Gen. George C. Marshall has already spent more than nine months in making the two Chinese factions compose their differences. Conflict of interests.-The conflict between the Chinese Nationalists and Communists is not only a conflict between Chinese citizens. William Henry Chamberlain in hls article the "Russian Policies in the Far East," says that Russia, on the one hand, desires to wield in China an influence not inferior to that of the United States, and, on the other, the United States exerts as much influence, as possible to make China strong, because a. strong China would be a great contribution to the cause of democracy in the Far East. Wha.t is behind the conflict?-Chamberlin emphasized that America is traditionally committed (Continued on the nezt page.) *i Why should we be interested in the activities of the United Nations? United Nations Activities -Rejection of Report The Economic; and Social Council of the United Nations has rejected a report of the Committee on Arrangements with Non-Governmental Organiza-tion which tried to limit the rights of the Work. Federation of Trade Unions. The World Federation of Trade Unions represents 56 countries of the .world or more than 661 000,000 workers. The Economic and ,Social Council decided to consider the right of the World Federation of Trade Unions to full membership. Justice to Displaced Persons The Arab Leag"Ue composed of seven nationsEgypt, Iraq, Syria1 Lebanon, Saudi Arabia, Transjordan, and Yemen-had chosen Dr. Charles :!'tialik of Lebanon to present to the United Nations Economic and Social Council its proposal to stop the United Nations from helping Jewish refugees. The proposal contained a resnlution asking the U. N to stop solving the problem of displaced persons. Russia supported Dr. Charles Malik of Lebanon. The United Nations Economic and Social Council voted 10 to 5 against the ~roposal of the Arab League because it is but fair and humane to help solve the problem or problems of displaced persons. Problems of the Far East (Continued) to the maintenance of China1 s political unity and adminstrative sovereignty. But, he pointed out, Russia is trying to do the same thing to her advantage by employing the method which she is using in Europe - by utilizing the Chinese, Communists as the nucleus' of a Soviet-oriented regime in China. To promote her iiif1uence on China, Russi.a accused the United States of fostering the civil war in China. Surprisingly enough, Madame Sun Yat Sen, wife of Dr. Sun Yat Sen, the father of Chinese nationalism, urged the United States to withdraw troops from China and to stop sending military supplies to the Nationalist forces. The United States, however, is determined to continue its work of unifying China. Study Helps 1. Why should the nations of the \vorld study the "sore spots" of the world? 2. Why do you think peace for our time was not secured after World War I? Do you think the 8* Request for Mediation The Charter of the United Nations states that a_ non-member of the United Nations may submit a dispute for study and recommendations for peaceful settlement. A condition however, is imposed on a non-member submitting a dispute, that is, it should submit in advance a promise that it should abide by the proposal of the Security Council. Siam has submitted to the Security Council a request for inediation on the historic boundary dispute between Siam and French Inda-China. The dispute is about the 21,750 square miles of territory , which was ceded to Siam by French Inda· China in accordance with the treaty mediated by the Japanese during the Japanese occupation of the Southern Regions from 1941 to 1945. Of this territory 16,887 square miles originally belonged to Cambodia and 4,863 square miles to Laos. Siam w~nts to keep these territories, but Franch lndoChina is determined to make Siam return the territories to Laos and Cambodia. New Members of the United Nations The discussions on the applications of 4iight nations for membership to the United Nations showed the rivalry of the members of the Security (Continued on the net page) causes of World War II were the "unfinished business" of World War I? 1 Why? 3. Cite an example to sho:w that the Allies won World Vlrar I but failed to establish an "enduring peace." 4. Why did the United States oppose the Russian labor plan for Japan? Was the objection justifiable? Why? 6. What is the problem of Korea? Why should it be solved? 6. Are you in favor of the abolition of the 38th parallel? Why? 7. A number of famous war correspondents say that Manchuria may be the "brewing point of World War III.'' Do yoU think this is true? 8. Why is the United States interested in Chi· na? \Vhy is Russia interested in China? 9. What is the real .cause of the civil war between the Nationalists and Communists? 10. DO you think it would be better for China to be left alone by the United States? W!cy? World Problems * Is the ''iron curtain" justified? Russia's Iron Curtain in Eastern Europe-General Objective of Russia Russia's foreign policy of world domination had its beginnings .in the past. For the last 500 years Russia's main policy has been to build one of the greatest empires the world has ever known. "At one time the Russian Empire'', says Frank Gervasi in his article "What is Russia up To?" "contained Findland, bulged hugely into Europe with Poland and Bessarabia, dominated Bulgaria, clamped around the Black Sea and so enjoyed the freedom of the Dardanelles, possessed the Crimea, overhung China like a colossus and reached Port Arthur." Russia is today one of the gi·eatest powers of the world. She demands her full share of the spoils of war. Because she knows that the security of her country de.pends on the establishment of security borders, Russia now is tryJng to get as much concession as possible to strengthen her borders. If she fails to acquire the territory along her borders, she sees to it that such a territory is governed by a government friendly to her. What is the Iron Curtain? It was former Prime Minister Winston Churchill who called the attention of all free-loving peoples of the world to the 11 iron curtain" that Rus13ia has built in Eastern Europe to carry out her main objective of security. In his Fulton speech, delivered on March 5, 1946, Churchill said: "From Stettin in the Baltic to Trieste in the Adriatic, an iron curtain has descended across the continent. Behind that lie the capitals of the ancient states of Central and Eastern Europe. Warsaw, Berlin, Prague, Vienna, Budapest, Belgrade, Bucharest and Sofia, all these famous cities and the populaUnited Nations Activities ... (Continued) Council for position, The eight nations that applied for admission were: Iceland, Afghanistan, Sweden, Ireland, Transjordan, Portugal, Albania, and Outer , Mongolia. In the beginning of the session of the Security Council, the United States proposed a compromise plan for the admission of all the eight nations to the United Nations. China, Egypt, Mexico, and Brazil supported the compromise plan of the United States. Russia and Australia attacked the compromise plan. Britain remained indifferent to the plan. The compromise plan was withdrawn by the United States after it was vigorously objected to, and rejected by Russia. The -eo'mpromise was voted upon. With the exception of the Australia delegate's who abstained from voting, the applications of Foreign Affairs tions around them lie in the Soviet sp.here and all are subject in one form or another, not only to Soviet influence, but to a very high and increasing measure of control from Moscow. Athens alone, with its immortal glories, is free to decide its future at an election under British, Americ~n, and French observation." What is the Mot.ive of the Iron Curtain? Churchill asked for the motive of Russia's move in Eastern Europe. The answer is plain. The main purpose of the "iron curtain" is to establish friendly gov~rnments along her borders because Russia fears the Western capitalistic democracies. Russia's fo1·eign policy is the same throughout: to secure Russia's frontiers against possible future att'acks. How was the "Iron Curtain" Built? Stalin made plain to all his visitors Russia's political ideology. He- said: HJn the course of the further development of the international revolution there will emerge two centers of world significance. One will be a socialist center drawing to itself the countries which tend toward socialism. The other will be a capitalist center drawing tr.1 itself the countries that incline toward capitalism. The battle between these two centers for command of the world's economy will decide the fate of capitalism and communism in the entire world." 1. The first step in the building of the "iron curtain" was the incorporation of the three Baltic states into the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics. These are Esthonia, Latvia, and Lithuania. 2. On September 17, 1939, Russia invaded Po( Continued on the next page) Iceland, Sweden, and Afghanistan were unanimously approved. Russia exercised her "veto" against Ireland, T.ransjordan, and Portugal. The United States and Britain exercised their "veto" against Albania and Outer Mongolia. The original 51 members of the Pnited Nations are: Argentina, Australia, Belgium, llolivia, Brazil, Canada, Chile, China, Colombia, Costa Rica, Cuba, Czechoslovakia, Denmark, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Egypt, El Salvador, Ethiopia, France, 'Gree~e, Guatemala, Haiti, Honduras, India, Iran~ Iraq, Lebanon, Liberia, Luxembourg, Mexico, Ne~ therlands, Nicaragua, New Zealand, Norway, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Philippines, Saudi Arabia, Syria, Turkey, Ukranian Soviet Socialist Republic, Union of South Africa, Union of Soviet Socialist Republic, United Kingdom, United States of America, Uruguay, Venezuela, White Russian Soviet Socialist Republic, Yugoslavia, and Poland. *9 Current Events Review f<W High School Students Published monthly during the school year Diosdado G. Capino Editor D. R. Manlapaz Publisher Suhscription Rates: One year (10 issues) . . . . . . . . . . . P6.00 One semester ( 6 issues) .. ·. . . . . . . 2.60 Payable in advance. Please make all remittances payable to the CURRENT EVENTS REVIEW 123-126 Reten, Sampaloc, Manila Russia's Iron Curtain .•. \Continued) land because she "could not remain indifferent to the fate of its blood· brothers, the Ukrainians and White Russians, who. . . had been abandoned entirely to their fate." On September 28, 1939, Rib· bentrop and Molotov concluded a treaty of amity and agreement on the border of Poland. Polish White Russia was incorporated into the the White Russian S. S. R. (Soviet Socialist Republic). Po· likh Ukraine was incorporated into the Ukrainian S. S. R. (Soviet Socialist Republic.) These two countries are now members of the United Nations Organization. 3. A Polish Committee for National Liberation which was established. in Moscow moved to Lublin in Poland. Russia recognized this government in July, 1944. On December 31, 1944, this Committee proclaimed itself as the Provisional Government of Poland. United States; and Britain refused to recognize this government. At the Crimea Conference in February, 1945, the Big 3 reached a compromise on the government of Poland. Negotiations were conducted to form a provisional government. The negotiations failed. Mikolajczyk, head 6f the Polish London government, and his associates moved to London and joined the Lublin government. The Polish Government of National Unity was formed on June 28, 1945, and was recognized by the United States and Britain in July of the same year. The Polish government is dominated by the Communists. 4. Several months ago Russia succeeded in signing a bi-partite diplomatic and military alliances with the three westernmost Slavic powers-Poland, Czechoslavakia and Yugoslavia. The influence of the Soviet system of government are felt in the government of these countries. The same influence may be felt working on other Balkan countries where Communist party coalitions have great influence in their respective governments. In some of the Balkan countries-Poland, Rumania, Bui· garia, Yugoslavia, and Albania, the Cemmunist 10 * party coalitions are the dominant governing forces. The Communists have the control of the internal and secret police forces. Significance of the "Iron Curtain" The Western democracies are critical of the existence ·of the "Iron Curtain." They charged that the people of the countries within this "curtain," have not been given freedom to choose the form of government according to their wiShes. It is important to note that, during the London Conference of the Foreign Ministers, it was suggested that peace treaties should not be signed with the former Axis satellites-Rumania, Bulgaria, and Hungary -because their governments were not democratic. During the Moscow Conference held in December 1945, the three Foreign ~ Ministers-Secretar; James F. Byrnes, Vyacheslav Molotov, and Foreign Secretary Ernest Bevin-reached an agreement to broaden the government of the three aforementioned countries. C. L. Sulzberger writing in an article entitled "Soviet Well Entrenched on New European Line," made mention that the Soviet policy is obviously seeking to move solidly into the vacuum created by the collapse of the Nazi system in that area and this same policy has encouraged the smashing of Western capitalistic economic interests in Eastern Europe. Today a new battle is going on in Europe. It is not a battle of guns, tanks, and airplanes. It is a battle of economic and political ideologies. Russia is determined to protect herself from fu~ ture attacks. She is also determined to protect and keep the friendly governments and nattons along her borders for security. The "iron curtain" of Eastern Europe has been made secure by the 11news blackout" in Eastern Europe. Study Helps 1. In his recent article in The New Republic, Irving Brant gives the following reasons for the new Russian policy: (a) to control and communize as much of the world as possible, (b) to acquire new economic resources, ( c) to gain new trade outlets, (d) to strengthen her defenses, (e) to re· gain territories previously lost, and (f) to solidify the Soviet "multi-national state." Do you think these are justifiable reasons for building the "iron curtain" in Eastern Europe? Why? 2. Do you think Winston Churchill is right in accusing Russia of building the "iron curtain"? Why? 3. Stalin has justified the building of the "iron curtain" because it is essential to her security. Do you think Stalin is justified in his defense of Rus· sian policy? Why? 4. Why are the democracies critical of the 11 iron curtain"? 5. Use the following words correctly: ideology, satellites, bi-partite, sphere of influence. Foreign Affairs 0 Why is Palestine a "boiling cauldron"? THE PROBLEM OF PALESTINE Where is Palestine and what is it noted for? Palestine, the Holy Land, lies between the Mediterranean Sea and the River Jordan. It is bounded on the west by the Mediterranean Se~ and Egypt, and on the east by Transjordan. In about 3500 B.C., Palestine was inhabited by cave dwellers. Several centuries later, a Semitic tribe, known as Cana{lnites, invaded Palestine and peopled it. And then, in 1479 B.C., the Egyptians under the leadership of King Thutmose III conquered the Canaanites and occupied 'Palestine. A few centuries later, another Semitic tribe known as the Hebrews also came to settle in Palestine. These different tribes were once united under Saul, David, and Solomon. But this unity was broken up when the Ass:yrians who then rose to power destroyed Da111ascu$ and Israel. The deterioration of the political unity of the different tribes became worse still when, again in 586 B.C., Babylonians captllred Judah and Jerusalem. And finally, when Alexander t~e Great conquered Palestine in 332 B.C., the political unity of the different peoples in Palestine was forgotten. After the fall of Rome, Palestine fell into the hands of the Moslem Arabs in 636 A.D. For foQr centuries the Moslems ruled Palestine. The Crusaders drove ·the Moslems and established the kingdom of Jerusalem. The Crusaders, however, failed to retain Palestine. In 1187, Jerusalem was recaptured by Saladin, the most heroic and distinguished Moslem ruler. The last Christians were driven out of Syria in 1291. In the 15th century, a band of Turks under Othman conquered the Balkans and extended its conquests to the Eastern Roman Empire. "Pales.tine was conquered by the Ottoman Turks who had - remained in power until the First World War. During the first World War, Palestine was invaded by the British forces in the fall of 1917 to prevent the Turks and their German allies from making Syria and Palestine the bases of operation against the Suez Canal. After the war, Palestine became the British mandate under the supervi.sion of the League of Nations. Three Faiths and Three Peoples In his famous book, The Puzzle of Palestine, published by The Foreign Policy Association, David H. Popper stresses the importance of Palestine. To the Jews, Palestine is the "Land of Israel"-their homeland and the sanctuary of their God. They believe that Palestine is the home promised tl).em by God and that a Messiah would one day come to lead them all back to it. Foreign Affairs The Arabs also consider Palestine as their real home. They have occupied the country for many years. They constitute the greater part of the population of Palestine. The present Arab population is over one million. The Palestinian Jews number only over half a million. The British assumed control of Palestine by virtue of the powers given her by the League of Na~ tions. Britain was selected as the mandatory of Palestine because of her interest in the security of the Suez Canal and because of her 1ong experience in dealing with peoples of different customs, languages, and religions. What is Zionism?The Jews are looking forward to the day when they will have established their national home in Palestine. It was this same hope that gave birth. to a movement known as Zionism. This mov~ment was star:ted by Theodor Herl. Herl called a convention of prominent Jews in .1897 at Easle, Sw'itzerland, for the purpose of uniting all the-Jews in a movement for the acquisition of Palestine i:t.S the homeland of the JeWs. This movement is now known as Zionism. The aim of Zionism was recognized by Britain and approved by Japan, Italy, France, and the United States. Lord Balfour in behalf of the British government made the folio-Wing declaration on November 2, 1917: "His Majesty's Government views with favor the establishment of a National Home for the Jewish People and will use their best endeavors to facilitate the achievement ·of that object." Likewise, on September 21, 1923, President Harding signed the resolution passed ·by Congress, approving in principle the aspiration of the Jewish people to have Palestine for their National Home. Difficulties of Britain The British Government has two definite aims in Palestine. The first is to make Palestine the national hotne of the Jews; the second is to protect the rights of the Arabs and. those of the other nonJ ewish population of Palestine. The British aims follow closely the Balfour Declaration, for the Balfour Declaration also states in part that "nothing shall be done which may prejudice the civil and religious rights of existing non-Jewish communities in Palestine." The British policy presents one great difficulty: "That Britain appears to be obligated to prepare the territory for self-government without having full power to weld the Jewish and Arab communities together."(1) · * 11 The P1·esent Position of the Arabs What is the present position of the Arabs in Palestine? In the book, Puzzle of Palestine, the demands of the Arabs are given as follows: 1. That the British give ·up the mandate of Palestine; 2. That the British stop the Jewish immigr'ltion to Palestine; 3. That the British prevent the sale of lands to the Jews; 4. That the British abandon the policy of e•tabiishing a National Home for the Jews in Palestme; and 5. That the British give the Arabs independence. The Arab leaders a:-gue that the continued immigration of the Jews would relegate the Arabs to the minority group, not through the natural· course of events,. but by force of British policy. They assert that the British policy of considering the Arabs a 11 non-J ewish community" is an affront. This policy is tantamount to making the Arabs mere privileged Aliens in Palesti·ne. For this reason, the Arabs have persistently opposed the immigration of the Jews to Palestine, and in desperation the extremist Arab leaders now demand the establishment of an independent Arab state. The Palestine Arab Party, headed by the Grand Mtifti of Jerusalem, Hai Effendi El Husseini, has even taken a more· aggressive stand. It advocates the expulsion of undesirable Jews. The conservative Arabs, however, have adopted a compromising stand. This stand is suvported. by the Arab League. The Arab League was formed on March 22, 1945. The members of the Arab League are Egypt, Iraq, Syria, Lebanon, Saudi Arabia, Transjordan, and Yemen. The League was recognized by Britain. The position of the Arab League was stated by Abdel Bahman Bey, Secretary of the League. He said: "The Arabs are opposed to any more immigration because the motives of the Zionists are political domination and their aim is the establishment of a majority over the Arab~. The Arabs demand for self-governing institutions for Palestine in which the. whole population, both Arabs and Jews, shall take part on a democratic basis." The Position of the Jews The British Goverriment and the Administration in Palestine recognize the Jewish movement, known as Zionism,. to establish in Palestine a Jewish Commonwealth. This movement is carried on in Palestine by a Jewish Agency fully recognized by Britain. The plan of the Jewish Agency is to control the immigration of the Jews to Palestine by limiting it to 100,000 Jews a year for the next ten Y·~ars. After the tenth year, the Jews would establish the Jewish Commonwealth. ' In the same book, The Puzzle of Palestine, the 12. demands of the Jews are also. given as follows: (1) that the British aid in the development of the National Jewish Home according to. the terms of the mandate; (2) that the British admit as many Jewish immigrants as the country can absorb without economic danger to the population; (3) that the British permit the Jews to buy lands without restriction;, and ( 4) that the· British protect each group against the domination by another or by a combination of the groups. To, clarify the position of the Jews in Palestine, Nahum Goldman, Chairman of the Executive of the World Jewish Congress and a political representative of the Jewish Agency, said: "Palestine opened to European Jews solves the question of the Jewish home. There but remains to normalize their status ~y recognizi_ng Palestine as a Jewish state .... I do not deny t11.at there is some moral justificatiOn to the claim of \he Arab to retain their majority status in Palestine. But there is greater justification of the Jewish claim for a real solution to their 2,000 year old tragedy." Decision to Ctmtinue with the Fede1·ation Plan The following are the different plans that have been presented to solve the Palestine question. In 1930 the Shaw Commission recommended the rev.ision of immigration laws to prevent the repetition of the excessive Jewish immigration of 1925 and 1926. The Royal Commission rEicommended in 1936 the partitioning of Palestine to re~stablish peace between the Arabs and Jews. The Anglo-American Commiitee of Inquiry en Palestine recommended in its 1946 report the a bi-national solution under a constitution whic.h would guarantee the rights of the Arabs and the Jews and which would prevent one from dominating the other. The report also recommended the immediate adminissiOn into Palestine of the 100,000 Jewish refugees. And, in the meantime, Palestine would be under the t~teeship of the United Nations. The .latest report on Palestine does not give a final solution to the Palestine question. The Anglo-American experts who had met in London recommended the partitioning of Palestine into a Jewish zone, British zone, and Arab zone. The Jewish Agency was not completely satisfied with these proposals. The Agency suggested that the 1,500-·;quare mile Jewish zone be increased to about 2,500 square miles. It also insisted that the zone be given selfgovernment. President Truman made some recommendations on the proposed British Federation plan. He approved the demand of the Jewish Agency for an increase in the area of the Jewish zone. He also suggested that greater powers for self-government be given to the Jews to prepare them for eventual independence. (Continued on page 19) Foreign Affairs Intelligent reading means understanding the significance of the news. Significant World News Roundup JAPAN Will Russian Communism Infiltrate into Japanese National Life? The Japanese government has passed a law similar to the Wagner Act in the Uni'ted States. The law guarantees the right of workers to join labor unions, to bargain collectively, and to declare a strike. The formation of labor unions is intended to protect the laboring class from the economic exploitation of the warlords. It has been officially reported that about 2 million Japanese are now members of various la·bor unions. There is a growing feeling that the labor movement in Japan might lead to communism if the Russian labor plan is adopted without modifications, by the Allied ·control Council. Lt. Gen. Kuzma Derevyanko, the Russian member in the Allied Control Council presented before the Council a 22-point labor program. Chairman George Atcheson, Jr., of the Allied Control Council opposed the program submitted by Derevyanko because Atcheson feared that the plan could easily be a means of spreading Communist propaganda in Japan. What is the Significance of the News?-What js behind the Russian labor program for Japaii.? The Uni~ed States is determined to give the Japain'ese opportnnit'y to enjoy their individual liberties and their economic rights. George Atcheson, Jr.,. register.ed his opposition to the Russian labor plan because he feared that the extremist and self-seeking elements might make the present labor movement a means of spreading Communist propaganda. Atcheson even went to the extent of asking Derevyanko whether or •not industrial strikes, the right to join labor unions, and fixed working hours are practiced in Russia. CHINA Disagreement continues The current negotiations for the settlement of differences between the Chinese Nationalists and the Chinese Communists have failed to brimg about the unity of the Chinese people. The peace truce arranged by Gen. George C. Marshall to make possible the negotiations ended on June 20," 1946. The deadlock between the Nationalists and Communists center on the political controi of certain areas which affect the vital welfare of both. The failure of the negotiations may lead to a large scale civil war 1nvolving the entire Chinese nation. What is the Significance of the News?-The negotiations failed because the Communists would like to have control of certain political areas in North China. After the failure of the negotiations the Communist General, Chou En-lai, gave a p:roposInternational News al asking for another area along the Honan-Hupeh border in exchange for peace. But the Nationalist objected strongly _to this proposal, for this territory would greatly strengthen the Communists by giving them free passage to join other Communists in Northern China. And a stronger Communist government would mean only one thing, a bitterer and longer civil war. Such a concession would make war surer, not peace. INDIA Indian Freedom Rejected The Brilish offer of independence to India has finally been accepted by the All-India Congress Party under the leadership of Mohandas K. Gandhi. In a recent resolution passed by the All-India Congi-ess Party, the ~ritish proposal was accepted by an overwhelming majori'ty of 204 to 51. It is significant to note the change in the policy pf the Moslem League headed by Ali Jinnah. At first, Ali Jinnah apposed the British plan; but, several 'veeks ago, Ali Jinnah worked for th~ acceptance of the British proposal for Indian independence. Jinnah convinced the Moslem League that the British Proposal was the best acceptable proposal, for it provides for a future "Pakistan." The British proposal, however, di41 not make definite commitments on an independent Moslem State or ''Pakistan." The 3.bsence of definite commitment on the estab lishment of the "Pakistan," made the policy-forming council of the Moslem League reject the British plan. ·The Moslem League is determined to establish an independent Moslem state or "Pakistan." What is the Significance of the News? Ali Jinnah, the influential alld powerful leader of the Moslem League, told his followers that the cause of the Moslems had been betrayed by the Brit~ ish. The British withdrew what they had promised to the Moslems. He expresed regret that the members of the All-India Congress Party were not s1ncere in working out a practical plan for the establishment of a constitution-making machinery th:a.t would draft the proposed constitution foil' an Independent India. Ali Jinnah suspected that the India Congress Party was determined to dominate the con~ stitutional assembly which would meet to prepare the constitution. Because of the change of the stand of the Moslems, India is now faced by a new crisis. India cannot secure the cooperation of the Moslem League, because the League has decided to seek "direct action" in establishing an independent Moslem state or "Pakistan." Anup S1ngh, editor of the Voice of India, once wrote that for the first time Britain had used the * 13 World News Roundup ... (Continued) word "independence' with reference to India, and for the first time, freedom had not been made contingent upon a prior agreement among Indian parties. The people of India must now take up the challenge of framing a new constitution which would determine her fate in the family of nations. Will the MO'slems cooperate? GERMANY, How Should Germany be Treated? The Potsdam Agreement provides that German~· should be treated as an economic unit during the period of Allied occupation. To secure this end the Agreement provides that common policies should be established on mining and iudustrial production and allocations; agriculture, forestry, and fishing; wages, prices, and rationingj import and export program for Germariy as a whole; currency and banking, central taxation and customs; reparation and remov;\l of industrial war potential; and transportatfon and communications. The Potsdam Agreement ;;pecifically states that in applying these policies ac~ount shall be taken, of varying local conditions wherever' and whenever appropriate. Germany is divided into four zones of occupation-the American, British, Russian, and Fl-en<'h zones. At present there are barriers betweP.11 the zones of occupation. Germany is riot treated as an economic unit. Russia has her own program of dealing with the German economic life in her 7.0ne. The same is true with the French. What is the Significance of the News?-Secretary James F. Byrnes proposed to the Control Commission for Germany that steps should immediately be taken to make Germany an economic unit and to treat her as such in accordance with the Potsdam Agreement. He accused France and Russia for the violation of the Potsdam Agreement. Foreign Commissar Molotov of Russia "vetoed" Byrnes' proposal to treat Germany as an economic unit. The United States is determined to secure economic, cooperation among the zones. The British have agreed to the proposal of Secretary James F. Bynnes. France and Russia have not yet announced their future program for the economic administr'.l.tion of Germany. United States ahd Britain believe that written agreements between nations should be carried out so that the world may not lose its respect for the sanctity of treaties. Russian and French interests in their occupation zones prevent them from fully carrying out the economic principles agreed upon at Potsdam on August 2, 1946. BRITAIN A New Hope fOr Britain One of the most important events in the recent history of Britain was the approval of the British loan by the Copgress of the United States. The $3,750,14 * 000,000 British loan was passed after heated d•bates in both houses of Congress. Different sections of the American public have expressed their views of this loan. Many urged the approval of the loan because they saw in it the revival or rehabilitation of Britain's war-damaged international trade. What is the Significance of the News?-The President of the United States in signing the loan expressed the view that the loan would hasten the rehabilitation of British international trade! The British labor government welcomed the loan as a sign of mutual. cooperation b~tween the two nations. The Conservatives regarded the loan as an expression of Britain's inability to stand on her own feet. International experts hailed the loan for three sigr\ificant fac,t~. First, thEi loan would mean the end of the sterling bloc. Second it would mean the tearing down of the trade barriers and tariff ·valls. Third it would mean the freer flow of commerce among nations. Financial experts believe that the loan would finally eliminate 14 rival and antagonistic economic blocs." RUSSIA Forced Migration Russia is responsible for the forced migration of 470,000 Germans from Polish and Russfan controlled areas; Sudeten Germans were also expelled from liberated Czechoslovakia, Hungary, and Yugoslavia. It is estimated that about 470,000 Sudeten Germans have been repatriated Lnto the United States' controlled zones of occupation in Bavarla. What is the Significance of the Ne\ls?-The Russians believe that the existence of Get·man minorities in their 'sphere of interest" increases the occupation problems of Russia. The United States, on the other hand, is willing to receive the repatriates from both Hungary aind Czechoslovakia. This forCible migration has made more difficult the food and shelter problems in the American zones of QCCUpation. The Russians are solving their occupation problems at the fullest expense of the Germans. The Germans are protesting against this forcible migration because such policy would uproot them from their ancestral homes.. HUNGARY What is the Aim of the Latest Russian Move? The recent diplomatic moves of Russia have aroused suspicions among the democracies. The Soviet High Command sent an ultimatum to the Hungarian government to stop immediately certain activities directed against the spread of Communism in Hungary, particularly those of the Hungarian Boy Scouts and Catholic youth organizations. Russia charges that thes~ organizations are fostering Fascism and also that certain officials of the Catholic Church are anti-democratic. Russia has even demanded of the Hungarian government the punish( Continued on the next page) International News World News Roundup ... (Continued.) happen in the relation between Trieste and Yugoslavia or between Trieste and Italy. ment of editorial writers who conducted or who are POLAND conducting a systematic campaign against Commun- Struggle for Power ism. What is the Significance of the News?-The ultimatum sent by the Red Army commander to Hungarian govemment is interpreted by the leaders of the Hungarian government as a mere excuse to tighten Russia's control of Hungary. It is for this reason that the United States has demanded that Rus. sia withdraw her occupation troops from Hungary as a forward step towards the drafting of the peace treaties for the former Axis satellites. Hung·uian leaders also view the ultimatum as a means of spreading Communism in Hungary as much as possible before the Red Army occupation troops leave Hungary and of suppressing freedom of the prec;s and of speeches. TRIESTE Will the Agreement be Fruitful? Arthur Gaeth, in his article in Collier'R, called Trieste a battleground of peace. Marshal Tito, the leader of the Yugoslav Revolution, is deeply concerned about the fate of Trieste. He said: "It would be an unacceptable solution if the claims of Italy were satisfied and if Trieste were incorporated into Italy and torn away from Yugoslavia. As a s111aller country than Italy, and actually as a. victim of Italian aggreSsion during this war, Yugoslavia has the right to claim the area for strategic reasons and to demand that those reasons be (weighed) as elements iii favor of the incorporation of T~ieste· The seriousness ot the final struggle for power between the Russian-sponsored Polish government and the Peasant's party under the leadership of Vice Premier Stanislaw Mikolajczky could be seen in the political schemes and manuever employed by both parties to get what th9 want in the national referendum. The people were asked to vote on three impor.tant questions: (1) Do you want a one-house parliament? (2) Do you favor the nationalization of some of the key industries? (3) Do you favor the new western fro.ntiers of Poland on the Oder and Niise rivers? The Russian-sponsored party wanted the establishment of a single-house parliament in order. to strengthen the powers of the government. The Peasant's party wanted a two house parliament because it believed that it would guarantee the rights of the people. What is the Significance of the News?-The conflict between the Communist-dominated party and the Peasant's Party is a conflict party between two ideologies: communism and democracy. In this struggle for power in the Polish government, one could see how Russia interferes in the internal affairs of Poland to bring to power the party on which she will have great influence. Russia appears determined to crush the Peasant's Party. LATIN AMERICA into Yugoslavia." Argentina on the Carpet During the London .and Paris co-nferences <>f The new government of Argentina under the the Foreign Ministers of the Big Four-United leadership of Sefior Domingo Peron, popularly known States, Russia, ~ritain, and France,-the disposition as the "strong man" of Argentina must show by of Trieste appeared to be one of the most difficult deeds that Argentina respects democratic principles. problems. Russia wanted to give Trieste to Yugos- The United States is closely watching the s_tep of the Ia~1ia. United States and Britain wanted to give it new Argentine government with respects ·to its atto Italy. After the failure of the Foreign titude toward inter-American relations and toward Ministers to decide on the question of Trieste in democracy. Several months ago, Argentina was their first two conferences, they decided to take up accused by the United States Government of the the French proposal for a final solution. Several following: (1) Member.s of the past Argentine milishowdowns were made by both United States and tary government collaborated with the enemy agents Russia during the Paris Conference of the Foreign for important espionage and for other purposes damMinisters. During the second Paris Conference, aging to the war effort of the United Nations. (2") Russia finally accepted the proposal of Franc~. Nazi leaders, and Nazi organizations combined with According to the French proposal, Trieste Argentine totalitarian groups to create a Nazi-Faswould be made an q.utonomous· zone for 10 years. cist state. f3) Members of the military clique Who The zone would include the Italian territory from had controlled the Argentine government since Duino to Nofa Citta. Will this temporary agree- June, 1943, conspired with the enemy to und~rmine ment be fruitful? the governments of neighboring countries in order to sabotage collaboration of those countries with the .... What is the Significance of the News?-This Allies and .to align such countries with the pro-Axis compromise plan temporarily settles the conflict be- bloc. ( 4) Successive Argentine governments protween Russia and the Allies. This ·solution, howeve!·, tected the Axis economic interests in Argentina. does not guarantee ultimate peace in the dis:mted (6) Successive Argentine governments con:;;pired territory. During the 10-year period, much could with the enemy by obtaining arms for Germany. ·~~~~~·~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~International News * 15 World News Roundup ... (Continued) What is the Significance of the News?-The information secured by the United States Government established the conclusion that during the war the Argentine government gave positive aid to the enemy; that it tried to undermine the Inter-·\.merican System i and that it broke its pledge to the United Nations "to reaffirm faith in human rights, in the dignity and worth of the human person." The last election gave approval to the new ~overn ment policies pursued by Sefi.or Domingo Peron. The paramount question now is, Will the policies of Perun. keep Argentina democratic or will they make Argentina a Fascist state? Stuity Helps DIRECTION: After reading and studying the various articles, supply the missing word or words on the blank. 1. The economic life of the Japanese must be protected from the control of the - - - - - - - 2. The Russian labor plan for Japan may mean the spread of - - - - - - - 3. Control of certain Chinese areas by the Communists will endanger the - - - - - - - 4. The American representative for the Chinese truce is - - - - - - - 5. The British plan for Ind!an independence was accepted by the and rejected bythe------6.·11Pakistan" means------7. According to the Potsdam Agreement Ge:many should be treated as an - - - - - - - unit. 8. The United States has announced its determination to .secure in all zones of occupation. 9. The British loan will rehabilitate Britain's 10. The British loan. has been posed by the 11. The Russian are responsible for t h e - migration of the Sudeten Germans. 12. The migration of the Sudeten Germans is increasing the problems in the - - - - - - - - zo~e of occupation. 13. Russian moves in Hungary will result in strengthening her on the country. 14. The solution of the problem of Trieste is 15. Russia wants the establishment of a - - - UNITED STATES Firm decisions The United States has a definite mission in the postwar world. Her leadership in the solution of many important problems will count greatly in bringing about World peace. SeYeral important events of the month have shown that the United States is determined to abide with international laws and to carry out all her commitments. 1. In her 48-hour ultimatum to Yogoslavia-, the United States gave notice: to the world that she would not tolerate thC breaking of international laws and she showed tO the world that interb.a· tional problems could be solved without going agahist the international laws, and that there is no problem, howeVer serious, that cannot be solved through diplomatic procedures. 2. The United States rejected the Russian deI!1and for the rnilita'ry control of the Dardabelles, because she believes that RuSsia's control of the Balkans and her participation in the defense of the strategic Dardanelles would endanger the Sovereignty of Turkey. The United States is determined to see an independent Turkey friendly, not only to Russia, but also to the countries of the West. 3. The United States has also taken the lead in carrying into effect the provisions of the cha.rter of the United Nations on non-self-governing territories. T.be report of the United States includes all her possessions in the Pacific, and it covers the economic, educational, and political conditions of all the territories. 4. The United States believes that the United Nations must continue to func~ion according to its established objectives. One of the objectives of the United Nations is the development of procedures fo:c the peaceful settlement of disputes. The United States has recently deposited with the United Nations its pledge to submit to compulsory, jurisdiction of the international Court of Juctice, the principal judicial organ of the United Nations. The decision of the United States puts an end to American isolationism. What is the significance of the news? These four examples reveal in clear terms the decision of the United States to cqoperate and lead in the estab· lishment of a peaceful world through the observ(Continued on the next page) 17. Argentina has been conden.med as a - - country during World War ii. - - - - - in Poland. 18. There were charges 16. The government of Poland is dominated by against Argentina. 19. D.omingo Peron is known as the----16* International News ance of treaties and by putting into practice what have been agreed to by the nations of the world. CHINA A new pmgram for China's national nnity The Chinese have been fighting one another. The efforts of Gen. George C. Marshal and Ambassador John L. Stuart to bring a 0 final" peace:.. ful settlement of. the differences bet.Ween the Nationalists are meeting great obstacles. There was a time when both men even announced that the prospect of a general peace in China was an impossibility. But "the· two men are ·still continuing their work in solving the peace problem of China in spite Of difficulties for the sake of China and the world. In an effort to ~ring about.national unity, Chiang Kai-shek offered a new program to. settle differences amicably. He announced that the national assembly would be held on November 12: This would mean the end. of the present Kuomintang government. In its place will be created a political consultative council which wilr have supreme and final power. This council will settle all political differenc.es peacefully. In order to realize this ol:ijective, Chiang Kai-shek asked the Communists to observe strictly the truce agreement, to withdraw from areas of conflict, and to stop their practice of gaining power by arms. What is the signifiCance of the news? The holding of the national assembly on November 12 will be an important event in Chinese history, for it \Vill mean the end of a divided government for China. This event will determine how far the people of Chjna can work together in solving their political problems. Will the Communists cooperate in the final satisfactory settlement of their political differences? Or will the country continue to fight and settle their political differences by the fcrce ·of arms? IN'DIA Will the Moslems cooperate? The formation of the interim government for India was preceded' by violeltt Hindu-Moslem riots in which more than 4,000 were killed. The interim gov~rnme"nt for India was launched on August 26, 1946. Pandit J awaharlal Nehru, President of the All-India Congress Party, was appointed head of the executive council. The other members of the interim government are: Sardar Vallabhai Patel,· Dr. Rajendt'a Pra"sad, Asaf Ali, C. Gepalachari, Sarat Chandra Bose, -Dr. John Matthai, Sardar. Balev Singh, Sir Shaff~t Ahmad, Jagjivan Ram Syed, Ali Aaheer, and C. H. Bhabha. It is interesting to note in passing that on the day of the launching of the interim government, Sir, Shaffat Ahrriad, a Moslem member of the newly organized government was stabbed. International News The interim government was approved by King George VI of England. Field Marshal Lord Arch· ibald Wavell appealed to the Moslems to cooperate by joining the interim government. Wavell ai:.ked the Moslems to join f_irst in t:he task of preparing India· for independence, before demanding any changes or reforms to promote their needs. He assured the Mosl.ems of British aid in bringing about necessary any reforms. What is the significance of the. news? .The Moslems are invited to join the interim government. But will they join it? This is, the question _facfog the new interim government. Before the launching of the government, Ali Jinnah, the president of the Moslem League, and Nehru m~t an:d discussed the formation of the interim government. The two failed to arrive at a satisfaCtory agreement on the composition of the iri.terim government. Ali Jinnah, who claims to be the leadei- of India's 90,000,000 Moslems, wants a greater representation of the Moslems in the new interirii government, for the present executive council, i~ dominated by the Hindus. All Jinnah severely criticizes the composition of the interim government. He urges all Moslems to boycott the meetings called by the new government. When will the Moslems cooperate? When will they join? GREECE The king returns The return of the kin!!' of G)'eece ·after the sec· ond World War becam~ a political question: The question was, however, .finally settled in a plebis:. cite held on September 1, 1946. The results showed that the people are in favor of the J"eturn. of King George II to the throne. The question was so serious that there we.re armed clashes both before and after the plebis· cite. There were charges and countercharges between the RoYalists and Communists. · The Com~ munists charged the Royalists for the disorderly holding of the plebiscite. The Royalists in turn charged the Communists for deliberately provok:ing the armed clashes between them. The Com:.. munists accused the United States and Britain for meddling in the inernal affairs of Greece. The '1reek government made the charge that the for~ign minister of Ukraine, Dmitri Manuilsky, tried to influence the plebi~cite by promising the Communists to make charges before the Security Council, against Greece and against Britain for undµly,. maintaining troops in Greece. What is the significance of the news? Greece has become a bi\.ttle ground for "ideological" propaganda. Greece is a democratic country, although it is ruled by a king. Greece is the bulwark of (Continued on the next page) * 17 World News Roundup ... (Continued) the democratic countries in the Mediterranean. United States and Britain want a strong Greece, because a strong democratic Greece would check Russian expansionism in the Mediterranean. Russia wants to have a Greek government which is friendly to her because she desires bases in the Mediterranean that are indispensable to her security. Recently, Russia filed a complaint against Britain before the Security Council, alleging, that Britain had interfered in the internal affairs of Greece and that Britain had maintained troops in Greece for this purpose. Russia also accused the United States for cooperating with Britain in in-· ducing the Greeks to vote for the return of the king. Russia's refusal to Send observers in the last election and nlebiscite would not justify her latest charge that the results of the plebiscite were fraudulent. The clash of the major powers for influence on Greece is a clear example of upower politics," (clash to secure political advantages favorable to a nation). KOREA Another invitationAfter the failure of the Russo-American Commiss.ion to agree on the plan for the provisional government of Korea, the United States extended another invitation to the Russian government to hasten the establishment. of a provisional gove~n ment in Korea as agreed upon by the Big Three -the United States, Britain, and Russia in the Moscow Conference in December, 1945. The invitation was forwarded by Acting Secretary of State Dean G. Acheson. What is the significance of the news? The gesture made by the United States in inviting Russia shows the' sincere desire of the United States to solve the Korean problem. It clearly denies moreover the charge that the United States has imperialistic designs in Korea. It is a]so significant to note that the li'nited States has announced its intention of staying in Korea until that country gets a representative government. The Russian has been invited to solve the problem of Korea. Will she accept the invitation? RUSSIA Success of Russian's demand for reparations.Russia has been demanding for reparations since the end of World War II on September 2, 1945. During the meeting of the Big Five Council of Foreign Ministers in London in October, 1945, Russia. demanded for a reparation of around 600 million dollars from Italy. These claims of Russia for reparations from Italy and Rumania were fav18 * orably endorsed by the ·two commissions of the 21-nation peace conference. The .economic commission for the Balkans endorsed the Russian reparation claims of 300 milliOn dollars from Rumania and 100 million dollars from Italy. Russia stripped Manchuria of her industrial Machineries. When questioned by the Allies for her motive, Russia replied that she would consider the machineries as reparation payment from Japan. W'hat is the significance of the news? The approval of the reparation awards to Russia removed one of the most perplexing probl~ms that confronted the Foreign ministers of the Big Four-the United States, Britain, Russia, and France in their London and Paris conferences. The approval of the reparation awards also hastened the approval of the economic provisions of the peace drafts. BRITAIN One year of "socialization" The pre.sent program of the British labor government to socialize Britain is a great political experiment. Fourteen months ago, when the British Labor Party took over the government of England, it announced that it would "socialize" Britain in order to bring about an orderly and evenly distributed economic progress. The labor government started its program by "nationalizing" the Bank of England. Under this plan, the shares owned by private individuals or companies were converted· into government stocks. This plan prevents the individual owners from having a monopoly of the profits. It allows the government,and consequently the people,-in sharing with the stockholders the profits made by the bank. Next to the "nationalizing" of the Bank of England, came the restrictions on private industries. These restructions aim to force the private industries to direct the social needs of the people in general. The government expects to revive the industry for the benefit of the people. As an example, the health insurance has ]jeen made obligatory to all industries. Some of these industries have been placed under the direct control of the government, to be sure that they serve the social needs of the people. The future program of the British Labor Party intends to nationalize even medicine, civil aviation, steel industry, atomic energy, and telecommunications. What is the significance of the news? The program of the British Labor Party for the "socialization" of the major industries is an attempt to bring back prosperity to England and at the same time solve the complex-labor and social problems which confront all capitalistic countries. The Labor Party hopes to make the prosperity of England, not a benefit to the few, but to all the people. International , News Such a prosperity env1s1ons a c!ountry where _the people equally share the wealth of the nat10n, where every man is free from hunger. The reason for the approval of this program by the EnO'lish people may be well understood if one knows ~hat the British people, especially the masses are up to the present still deprived of many of 'the essentials of living. The British still have their prime commodities strictly rationed. AFGHANISTAN Traditional "frontiers"? Afghanistan his been called "the land of rocks and stones and sanguinary feuds." This is so, because Afghanistan is between the growing Russia on the North and the growing British empire on the South. Being between two rival powers, Afghanstan his always been the object of diplomatic and military intrigues. The success of Russian moves in Turkestan in 1857, for example, forced England to adopt a new policy towards Afghanistan. She regarded Afghanistan not merely as frontier to India but as a possible path for Russian advance. England, therefore, had to the exert her influence on Afghanistan. Recently Russia has adopted a new program for establishing her relations with Afghanistan. She held a conference with Afghanistan ostensibly to discuss the "traditional frontiers." England eyed this discussion with Suspicion. What is the significance of the news? The latest Russian move is a part of the Russian program CJf secutity. It is significant to note that the recent boundary ccnference made official the "traditional frontiers" between Russia and Afghanistan. But why is Russia interested in making such frontier$ officially marked? TURKEY Rejection of Russian demands Russia recently sent Turkey a demand for a joint-defense of the Dardanelles. This demand sought to amend the provisions of the Montreaux convention which give Turkey the sOle right to protect the important Straits. The demand proposed that the protection of the Straits be in the hands only of the Black Sea powers. The United States, Britain, and Turkey unequiv· ocdUy opposed any modification of the provisions of the Montreaux convention. The United States explicily stated its opposition to the Russian demand that the control of the Straits be .placed in the hands of the Black Sea powers only. The U.S. is opposed to the Russian demand for a joint-defense, because she is determined not to have Russia establish bases in the Dardenelles. What is the significance of the news? Russia International News Problems of Palestine • • • (Continued from page 12) . What is the significance of the news?-The Bntish government has decided to establish a "federated Palestine" regardless of the opinion of the President of the United States and in spite of the re· jection of both the Arabs and the Jews. The British are convinced that the federation plan is the best possible solution to the Palestine question. STUDY HELPS .1. Hold an open forum on the following topics: a. The admission of 100,000 Jew~ into the Holy Land is the best solution to the problem of the Jews in Europe. b. The partitioning of Palestine is the best compromise between the irreconcilable demands of the Arabs and the Jews. 2. On May 17, 1939,. the British government issued a White Paper restricting the Jewish immigration to Palestine to 10,000 a year for the next five years. The Jews are at present demanding the abolition of the White Paper. Are they justified? 3. Why does not Britain have full power to weld the Arab and Jewish communities? 4. Are the Arabs justified in their demand for an independent Arab state? 5. Is the restriction of Jewish immigrition incompatible with the object of establishing a .Jewish National Home? Why? 6. Are you in favor of placing P3.lestine under the Trusteeship Council of the United Nations? Why? ' 7. In your opinion, to whom does Palestine belong?. Does it belong to the Jews or to the Arabs? Why? has secured the establishment of security frontiers in Eastern Europe, Baltic Sea, and northern Iran. Her demand for joint-defense of the Dardanelles is part of her security program.. But Russia's demand cannot be answered by Turkey alone. Tht> pl'ovisions of the Montreaux convention requires that any modification desired by any party should be submitted to an international conference and should be discussed in the light of the aims and principles of the Charter of the United Nations. The opposition of Bi·itain is according to her traditional policy of keeping the Russian from having any share in the control of the Dardanelles. YUGOSLAVIA The answer to the ultimatum In August of this year a very grave international situation developed when the United States sent a 48-hour ultimatum to Yugoslavia for the release of American crewmen from two transport planes which had been sh~t down by Yugoslav fighters. The government of Marshal Tito was bluntly told that failure to release the men would (Continued on page 24) * 19 0 The Philippine Republic and the World Highlights of the Address of Pres. Roxas Delivered on July 4, 194.6 On the F01·ward Thrust to Freedom A historic drama has· just been unfolded before 6ur eyes. The American flag has been loweted from the .flagstaffs ,in this land. . . not in defeat, not in Surrender, illOt by compulsion, but by the voluntary act of the sovereign American nation. . . As its brave colors fluttered down from the flagstaff a moment ago,. the cycle of history had completed a full ·turn. In the culmination today, America justi'fied her destiny. For America, today's act of renunciation was the climax of triur0ph ... for enlight~nment, for democratic values, for liberty. We mark here today the forward thrust of the frontiers of freedom. On Our Debt to Our Heroes As we embrace o'ur national freedom, we must see in it as other peopl~s of the world do, not alone the product of our struggles and strivings, not alone the altruism of A'.merica, but also the final product of the world's age-old quest for liberty. We owe to our own heroes. . . to Rizal, to Bonifacio, to Mabini, to Quezon, and to Del Pilar and to many others a gratitude of memory, both deep and abidi'ng. On the Education of the Filipinos for Freedom When American troops landed on these shores in 1898, they found in full cry the yearning for freedom. . . They Said ~hat America had come not to exploit but to teach, not to tyrannize but to lead, riot to own but to liberate. To our great surprise and to the wonder of the entire world this promise was kept. Tlte benevolent stewardship was discharged with scrupulous regard. The successive spokesmen America sent here reiterated and emphasized the intentions of the United States to educate the Filipinos for freedom. On Our Obligatiop. of Gratitude The world cannot but wonder today as we be~orrie a nation. A new era has come to the Orient. The first deinocratic Republic has been established in this quarter of the globe. Freedom has been granted our people, a freedom requested by peaceful petitiqn and freely granted by the American Congress. Th~i'e are members of the CongresS here today and amqng' them are men to whom our obligation of gratitude is deep and everlasting, We will never forget their long and ardent labors for our liberty and welfare. They are heroes of our history and of our .People. Their place in our hearts is secure. On Our International Responsibility From this day forward our international re20. sponsibility is absolute. As we are masters of our own destiny, so too we must bear all the consequences of our actions. If we surmount the difficulties that beset us, if we cOnquer the obstacles which bar our way, our people will grow great in the eyes of men. There is no redress for our actions beyond the immutable laws of justice among nations. Our period of apprenticeship is past. We are an adult in the council of nations. Our decisions must be gravely made; they will be greatly judged. Our war-time heroism has commanded the respect of the world. We dare not sacrifice th~t respect. From this day forward, .it is not the leaders of government alone who will be judged. By the actions of our government, the Filipino people wi11 be appraised. Our actions in the next years will determine the· estimate the world Will place upon our national character. Heavy is the weight of responsibility we bear as we start out upon the dangerous paths of independence. . .. We must SE!lect our fare, and adhere to that selection. Our alliances must be firm and unshakable. Our loyalties must be strong and enduring. On Our Dependence on World's Conscience We cannot live in unconcern for the world's opinion. We cannot bar frbm our shores the products of other lands. We cannot build on principles of isolation. Today the affairs of Trieste must be our concern. Today we, too, have an interest in the Mediterarnean. The problem of Palestine is our problem. The Poles and the Czechs are our neighbors; their fate concerns us as intimately as the destiny of China, the future of Manchuria or the welfare of Malaya. The world today ·is· one. While we gain the glorious gift of freedom, it is accompanied by a charter of obligations. Today the concept of independence is overshadowed· by the dynamic growth of international iJ;"lter-dependence. . . . We have, by our membership in the United Nations, already surrendered some of our sovereignty. If called upon· to help in the enforcement of" peace, we, must supply that help .... In the world of nations we lack the authority of power. We must depend on the world's conscience for our Protection and salvation. On Our Faith in America The world cannot but have faith -in America. For our part, we canriot but place our trust in the good intentions of the. nation which has been our friend and protector for the past 48 years. To ,do otherwise would be to forswear all faith in democra·· cy, in· our future, and --in .ourselves. National Affairs On the Substance and Forms of Dcmoc1·acy We will maintain the implacable substance as well as the noble forms of democracy. We will stay our progress, if it is necessary, to permit time for democratic counsels. We are determined to reflect in the actions of the government the will of the people·. We will move with the speed indicated by the people's wisdom. We will eschew the symbols and shibboleths as well as the motives of dictatorshi"P. We cannot avoid the process of patise and advance which is the democratic way. Ou Our Promise Our people bear well the burdens of adversity. The national spirit is one of humility, of gen~le ness, and kindly brotherhood. Stout of he~ut and firm of purpose, prudent arid wise in· the deep wisdom of nature and of God our people have gr.eat reservoirs. This land, this child of freedom, has great responsibilities to America; We are a staging area bf democracy in this part of the world. But whatever our role in hiStory, of one thing we may be sure ... the Filipino, strong in his faith and steadfast in his loyalty, will support his nation, come what may. This daughter land of America, sprung from the hardy stock of Asia, will not be awed by difficulties. It wi]l live and endure the shocks of time. This is our faith and this is our resolve. With the help of the Divine Providence, our steps will be illumined by the shining countenance of truth and of righteousness ... our spirits will be eased from the weariness of toil by the grace of knowledge that our people's happiness is our goal. Our independence is our pride and our honor. We shall defend our nation with our lives and our fortU:nes. As a poet wrote long ago: Let independence be our boast Ever mindful what it cost Ever grateful for the prize Let its altar reach the skies. Study Helps 1. Why does the inauguration of the Philippine Republic mark the forward ·thrust of ·the froritiers of, freedom? What is meant by the. "frontiers of freedom?" 2. What is our debt to our national heroes? 3. Give instances of how America had worked hard to educate the Filipinos for freedom. 4. Why are we grateful to the United States? 5. What is our international responsibility? Why is our international responsibility absolute? 6. Do you think you have an obligation to be interested in the problems of the world'? How does the Current Events Review help you to be interested in the affairs of the world? 7. Explain why we depend on the world's conscience for protection and salvation? National Affairs SIGNIFICANT NAMES IN CONTEM•. PORARY NEWS Miguel Aleman.-The new President of Mexico is Miguel Aleman -who defeated Foreign Minister Ezequiel Padilla who belonged to Mexico's Democratic Party. Ryukichi Tanaka.-A patriotic Japanese is now performing valuable services to the .War Crime Tfibunal trying Japanese war criminals. He has been cooperating with the prosecution since Febru:iry, 1945. War Damage Commission.-The members o!·the war damage commission are Dr. Frank Waring as chairman, John S. Young and Francisco Delgado as members." Richard P. Butrick.-The United States has loaned Richard P. Butrick to the Philippine government as adviser to President Roxas for the organi· zation of the Philippine Republic's foreign affairs office. Butrick is widely known as an experienced forei'gn service inspector. Joaquin Elizalde.-The Philippine Repµblic has. appointed Joaquin Elizalde as Philippine ambassa., dor to the United States. Carlos P. Romulo.-Brigadier General Carlos P. Romulo has been appofoted aS permanent Philippirie delegate to the United Nations OrganizaUon. Gen. Draja Mihailovich.-Gen. Mihailovich was the man who organized the Chetnik guerrilla unit~ who fought the Germans in 1941. He was acclaimed a hero by the Allies. He was charged of collaborat· ing with the Germans during tl}.e war. He was sen-· tenced tQ die by the Yugoslav government. Brig. Gen. Ernest B. Btirt.-The 27,000-hectate comprising the Buenavista Estate was acquired by Brig. Gen. Burt. He is assistant advocate general of the United States Army and forlnerly with the High Commissioner's office. Gualberto Villaroe.1.-The virtual dictator of Bolivia was killed by a .popular revolutionary movement. Major Villardel was elected President in 1944. He ruled Bolivia with an iron hand. The people decided to eliminate him because of his .iron grip 8. Why should we cooperate in pushing the ' 1frontiers of freedom?" 9. Carlos P. Romulo says in his latest book I Saw the Philippines Rise that democracy will be one of our inspiring ideals. Show how democracy may serve as our ideal. 10. Use 'the following terms in a sentence: enlightenment, altruism, exploit, sµrmount, enduring, ideal, and sovereignty. 11. Use each of the following expressions in a sentence: climax of b:iumph, products of struggles and strivings, quest for liberty, period of apprehticeship, council of nations, loyalties must be strong and enduring, burdens of adversity, weariness of toil, and grace of knowledge. Men and Events * 21 PHILIPPINE NEWS IN REVIEW The Filipinos ai·e Grateful The United States has demonstrated its desire to help th~ Philippines start a new life as an independent nation. Among the various acts of the United States Congress for which the Filipinos are grateful are: 1. The Filipinos have been given the right to naturalize as American citizens through the enactment of the naturalization act. 2. The Philippine government has in the United States Treasury ce1-tain deposits due her. By an act of the United States Congress the sum of $72,000,000 in sugar and coconut oil excise taxes was released. a. The Export and Import Bank was given authority to extend its operations to the Philippines to enable thiS nation to borrow capital to finance various industries. 4. The Filipinos were given the right to charter war-built vessels of the United States government at the same rate as that charged to American citizens. 5. The Filipinos civil service in the United States were given protection after the grant of Philippine independence. They were allowed to stay in their present jobs inspite of the provision against the employment of non-citizens in the United States. 6. The War Damage Act. 7. The Philippine Trade Act known as the Bell Trade Relations Act. 8. The Military Assistance Act. 9. Transfer of Commonwealth securities to the Philippine Republic. 10. The benafits alloted to Filipino war veterans. Pledge of Assistance A special message by President Harry Truman pledged the giving of assistance to our new Republic. "The formal compact," saifi President Truman, "is being dissolved. . . the compact of faith and understanding between the two peoples can never be dissolved. We recognize this fact and propose to do all within our power to make Philippine independence effective, and meaningful. The Philippine Republic and the United States have already chartered the patterns of relationship for all the world to study. Together in the future our two countries must prove- the soundness and wisdom of this great experiment in Pacific democracy." Official Recognition of the Philippine Republic According to the officials of the Department of Foreign Affairs there are various ways of extending official recognition to a sister free nation. The five ways are (1) by formal notification of recognition by the head of the nation making the recognition, 22* (2) by sending messages of felicitation, (3) by sending representatives as official delegates. to the inauguration, (4) by the conclusion of a treaty, and (5) by the establishment of embassies or consulates. Among the nations that have officially recognized the Philippine Republic are: the United States, Mexico, Chile, Panama, Colombia, EI Salvador, Costa Rica, Hunduras, Czechoslovakia, Iceland, Hungary, China, Sweden, Canada, New Zealand, Great Britai.n, Holland, Belgium, Iraq, Greece, and the Union of South Africa. It is expected that all the 51 nation members of the United Nations will dOOn act in giving their official recognition of the Philippine Republic. Restoration of Veteran's Rights One of the successful accomplishments of the hyoman commission sent by the Philippines to the United States to work for the rights of Filipino veterans in World War II was the restoration of some rights previously withdrawn from the original GI bill of rights. Arnong the most important rights that were restored were: (1) hospitalization and medical care for service-connected disability; (2) appropriate burial allowances, and (3) pensions for servfoe connected-disability or death. It is estimated that more than 30,000 war widows, and maimed and sick veterans of World War II in the Philippines will be benefited by these amendments to the original GI bill of rights. Proposal f01· the Abolition of the Philippine Tenancy System In a special message sent by President Manuel ~· Roxas to the Congress of the Philippines, certain proposals were submitted to abolish the old and feudalistic tenancy system in the Philippines. Among the proposals submitted by the President are: (1) establishment of the fairest possible contractual basis between the tenant and landowner; (2) replacing the system of tenancy with a system of fixed land rental, either in money or in produce; (3) acquisi· tion of large estates for the purpose of subdividing them for sale at cost to the tenants; and ( 4) to open up large areas of public land for development and distribution to farmers to be attracted from the congested farm areas. In advocating the abolition of the old tenancy system, the President made it clear that the proposals he submitted were fair, just, and necessary. "Tenancy," said the President, "is an archaic and socially undesirable system as the basis of .agriculture. It is ·a remnant of feudalism. It is a form of extreme paternalism which retards the economic and social progress of tenants and farm workers. It ties the laborer to the land as a chattel. It deadens his spirit of enterprise and makes him totally National Affairs dependent on the landowner. The condition of many tenants is .not unlike serfdom. This situation is repugnant to modern concepts of free enterprise and human dignity." Approval of Parity Rights After long, bitter, and historic debate, the Philippine Congress in joint session approved on September 18, 1946 a plebiscite on the constitutional aamendment granting equal rights with Filipinos to American citizens. The controversial measure was passed by a vote of 16 to 5 in the Senate and by 68 to ·18' in the House of Representatives, The resolution as approved reads: Ordinance Appended to the Constitution "Notwithstanding the provisiol)S of Section. One, Article Thirteen, and Section Eight, Articles Fourteen, of the foregoing Constitution, during the effectivity of the Executive Agreement entered into by the President of the Philippines with the President of the United States on the fourth of July, nineteen hundred and forty-six, pursuant to the provisions of1Commonwealth Act Number~d Seven.hundred and thirty-three, but in no case to exten'd beyond the third of July, nineteen hundred and seventy-four, the disposition, exploitation, development, and utilization of all agricultural, timber, and mineral lands of the public domain, waters, minerals coal, petroleum, anq other mineral oils all forces and sources of potential energ;, and other natural resources of the Philippines, and the operation of public utilities, shall, if open to any person, be open to citizens of the United States 3.nd to all forms of business enterprise owned or controlled, directly or indirectly, by citizens of the United States in the same manner as to, and under the same conditions imposed upon, citizens of the Philippines or corporations or associations owned or controlled by citizens of the Philippines." "This amendment shall be said as a part of the C~nstitution when approved- by a majority of the votes cast in an election at which it is submitted to the people for their ratificatiori. pursuant to Article XV of the. Constitution." Social and Economic Program of Agragrian Reform President Manuel A. Roxas has recently issued an order outlining the program for the restoration of peace and order in the country. The order is unique in the history of our country because it embodies at the same time the social and economic reforms desired by the President. The program presents twelve significance reforms and projects which are apparently intended to bring about peace by striking at the very roots of the causes of current uprisings and lawlessness: (1) 70-30 crop division; (2) Stamping out of ustiry; (3) purchase of big estates and their resale to tenants; (4) loans to small farmers and tenants; ( 5) encouragement of the establishment of farm cooperatives; National Affairs (6) resettlement projects in sparsely settled areas; (7) scientific aids to increase agricultural production; ( 8) safeguarding of persOn and property everywhere; (9) work projects for the unemployed; (10) support of claims for official recognition of those who served against the enemy; (11) legal aid for the p~:esentation of claims for war damages, veteran's benefits, etc., and (12) encouragement of small business enterprises and industries to provide seasonal employment, especially in Centrai Luzo~. - Significance of the news? -The President is determined to promote social justice. In ca.Trying out the social and economic program of agrarian reforms, the President emphasizes two outstanding points: (1) all activities anywhere in the Philippines should be carried out within the framework of" law, order, and duly constituted authorities and (2) the government will not permit the usurpatfon ol public authority or the seizure of the functions of government by unofficial individuals,. groups, or organizations. The President clearly pointed out that the government has no desire to carry out retributions against any individual, group, or organization. Civil liberties a·re guaranteed. The people can help the government ( 1) by surrendering all arms; (2) by cooperating actively and positively in the keeping and maintaing peace and order; (3) by voluntarily disaffiliating themselves from "private" armies; and (4) by giving willingly their wholesome cooperation and ~upport to the government. Gnerrilla Amnesty The President has issued proclamation g1vmg amnesty to indicted guerrillas. According to the proclamation all persons who committed any act penalized under the revised penal code in /urtherance of the resistance to the enemy or gainst those aiding the war efforts of the enemy during the period from December 8, 1941 to the day of liberation will be granted amnesty. The amnesty proclamation does not however, apply to crimes against chastity or acts committed for purely personal reasons. Significance of the news. -The amnesty proclamation is ·a concrete step to bring Justice to those who are facing the indigllity of being subjected to a criminal prosecution for acts committed in their honest endeavor to resist the enemy. The records show that more than 1000 cases have been brought before the court for alleged murder, robbery, and general depradations. Signs of the Return to Normalcy 1. The Director of Commerce, S. R. Mendinueto, made the statement that "we might expect return of the retail price index to is pre-war level ih about (Continued on the next page) * 23 Philippine News ... (Continued from page 19) fOurteen months, or sometime in the last quarter of next year." 2. The purchasing power of the peso according to the· Bureau of Census and Statistics is over 20 centavos of its pre-war value. 3. The cost ef living has been going down fast throughout the Philippines. These deci·ease in tne cost of living is mainly due to the heavy inflow of American consumer goods, the improvement of transportation facilities, and the current increase in the food production in many regions of the country, 4. The post-war import from the United States is about 600 million pesos a year. 5. Philippine exports are still low. Only copra has shown considerable progress. Good News for the Philippines Immediately after the liberation of the Philippines, the United States treasury set up measures to control the enemy assets in the Philippines. The main purpose of the freeze control was to enable the United States to control enemy assets and those of the alleged collaborationists. Recently, the United States treasury has announced the unfreezing of these properties either in the United States or in the Philippines. The announcerp.ent is significant, because these properties, which were liquidated, will do much to improve our economic life. You Can Help According to the report of Lamberto T. Javalera, Chief of Police for the City of Manila, the increase of juvenile delinquency is alarming, The increase of juvenile delinquency is due to poverty, lack of' schools and public play-grounds, absence of healthy amusement for minors, and lack of p2rental care as a result of the death of hundreds of parents during the war. A systematic program should be launched to solve the problem. The extension of health service and medical care, the intensification of religious se;rvices and instruction, and the formation other socio-civic activities that may help direct our youths to wholesome endeavors have been suggested as immediate remedies. Important Decisions 1. The government has decided to continue its plicy of attraction in the pacification campaign in Central Luzon. The commission of peace and order continues to hold hearings to enable peasants to lodge their complaints and grievances against the government or private persons. 2. The government has also decided to curb the practices of grasping landlordism characterized by oppression, usury, and exploitation. "I have pledged myself to such a program," says President Ro24.* World News Roundup .. , (Continued from page 19) force the .United States to call a meeting of the United Nations Security Council to take prompt action on the case. The government of Marshall Tito promptly complied with the ultimatum. He released the American !lirmen and·. allowed the investigation of the graves o{ the American fliers. The ,United. States received 40fulJ satisfaction" for the wrong done by the Yugoslav fighters. Wh~t is the significance of the news? The step taken by the United States was a warning to the world that it would not tolerate the deliberate violation of the law of nations and the principles of humanity. Moreoyer, the United States also demonstrated to the world that there is no problem, however grave, that could not be solved through normal diplomatic procedures. xas, "and the Government is moving as swiftly as it can in this direction. Nothing will be. permitted to interfere with these efforts." 3. The governmerlt is determined to bring down the prices of lumber by banning the exportation of this material to foreign countries, including the United States. To carry out this policy, the President issued an executive order prohibiting the exportation of lumber. Recently a group of lumbermen sent petition .to the President asking him to reconsider the executive order banning the exports of lumber, timber, and logs, but the President turned down the request for the benefit of the people. 4. An administrative order was issued by Malacafian declaring that the present government will not entertain any claim or, claims against the Philippine Executive Commission, during the Japanese occupation or the puppet "Republic" during the war. Study Helps 1. The Manila Chronicle calls the social and economic program of President Roxas a new "Magna Carta" for the Philippines. What do you mean by "Magna Carta"? Why is the program called a new "Magna Carta"? 2. Discuss before the class why each point in the social and economic program of the President significant. 3. What conditions were set by the Presiaent in order to carry out properly the economic and social program? Why are they needed? 4. Is the guerilla amnesty justified? Why? Some people oppose the guerilla amnesty. Do you think they are justified? 5. Why do you think the recent order of the United States treasury to give back. Philippine assets and other assets to which the Philippines has National Affairs • Why is proper control of atomic energy important? What shall we do with the atom? The International Threat In announcing the .dropping of the second atomic bomb at Hiroshima, President Harry Truman emphasized the grave responsibility of the civilized world in preventing the outbreak of another global war which might mean the total destruction of mankind: "The atomic bomb is too dangerous to be loos~ in a lawless world .. We must constitute ours~lves trustees of this new force-to prevent its miSuse, and to turn it into the channels of serVice to mankind." The Atomic Alliance President Truman of the United States, Prime Minister Atlee of Britain, and Prime Minister McKenzie of Canada held a conference a few months ago to discuss from all angles the most effective way of coritrolling the use of the atomic energy. rfh~y agreed that a plan on the control of atomic energy should be acceptable and enforceable. A special confmittee was created to studY. the control of atomic energy. Proposals by a Board of Consultants A Board 'bf Consultants was created to explore the possibilities of adapting energy to peaceful purposes and to study the means of eliminating its use as ·a weapon of war. The recommendations· of the Board were submitted by David E. Lilienthal, Chairman of the Tennessee Valley Authority, to the Secretary of State. The report gave three important reasons for the necessity of an international control of atomic energy : ( 1) It has been shown that , the use of atomic energy in weapons of war places at the disposal of mankind "means of destruction hithert0 unknown." (2) There can be no edequate military defense against atomic weapons. (3) In the employment of atomic weapons, no single nation can have a monopoly. 'The Board made a significant comment when it said that international rivalries in the development of atomic ~ergy for destruCtion may be uncontrolled. "We believe," the Board said, "that so long as nations or their subjects engage fn compeacquired rights important for Philippine economic life? 6. What is meant by "juvenile delinquency"? How can you help in the present cl.rive to curb "juvenile delinquency"? 7. Prepare a short floor talk on each of the important decisions made by the government. Give the importance of each decision. Foreign Affairs titian in the fields of atomic energy the hazards of atomic warfare are very great indeed." What were the concrete proposals presented by the Board for the international control of atomio energy? 1. It recommended the establishment of an international agency to be called Atomic Development Authority. This agency, v,hich should be constiLuted , on an international basis, _would be vested with power to control the operation of all "dangerous" atomic acti"vities, such as the mining of uranium and thorium, the only known elements which could create atotni~ explosions; the production and possession .of fissionable materialsplutonium and U-235-in "dangerous" quantities and forms; and the research in atomic explosives. The main function therefore, of the Atomic Development Authority would to control the so.ppliP.s of uranium and thorium in the world and to control the production of metals for making~ atomic weapons. The Atomic Development Authority necessarily' would be given the sole power to build and cperate production plants and to conduct researches on explosives. 2. It recommended the establishment of a thorough and efficient program of inspection. The main purpose of the program is to carry out an international inspection of all production plants in various nations in order to prevent the illicit use of atomic energy. In expl~ining the purpoe of this iternational inspection, the report said that, "if the element of rivalry between nations were removed by assignment of the intrirrsically "dangerous" phases of the development of atomic energy to an international organization responsible to all people, a reliable prospect would be afforded fo~ a system of SP.curity." 3. It recommended that the Atomic Deveopment Authority own the uranium and thorium wihch it might miite and fissionable materials it might produce. This ownership would enable the .Atomic Development Authority to determine the conditions under which these "dangerous" materials might Pe used. 4. It recommended that the Atomic Development Authorit.r be in charge of reseach into the "dangerous" uses of atomic energy. All nation$. which may conduct research for destructive· purposes would be barred from such activities. This recommendation envisage to make use of outstanding scientists in keeping track of researches in the destructive use of atomic energy. * 25 What shall we do ... (Continued) 5. It recommended that the "safe" researches in the use of atomiC' energy be left to national governments. The atomic materials, however, would be denatured before they are turned over to nations desiring to use these materials for peaceful purposes. The denaturalization of atomic energy would prevent dangerous researches for .war-making purposes and would require only an indirect control with minimum international supervision. 6. It recommended that the Atomic Development Authority have the sole power to license plants engaged in the production of atomic energy. "ThrOugh the le~se of denatured atomic mat.erials to those desiring to build or operate reactors of various non-dangerous kinds, the personnel of the Atomic Development Authority could have access to the. establishment on which such materia 1 js used. Moreover, through its own research and development activities and through est0ablishing cooperative relationships with research and de· velopment laboratories in this field throughout the world, the Authority would be in, a position to determine intelligently safe and designs of reactors for which it might lease its fissionable materials." 7. It recbmmended that the Atomic Development authority be given the power to license and" lease research reactors or the construction and op·eration of reactors for making radioactive materials. 8. It recommended a gradual change toward a world plan for the control of the atom. The Board believed that certain information on atomic energy might be released to other nations. The United States. Offered to Reveal the Seerets The United States through Bernard M. Baruch, Chairman of the United Nations Commission on Atomic Energy; indicated her desire to reveal the secrets of atomic energy under certain conditions. Bernard M. Baruch based most of his proposals on the recommendations submitted by Acheson and LilieU:thal to the State Department. Baruch emphasized that only with the establishment of an inter· national atomic development authority could the secrets be revealed, and that for the security of th~ world it is necessary for its authorized inspectors to have free access to all atomic plants at all times. Under this plan, it becomes indispensable for nations to make adequate treaty agreements and to provide immediate punishments to those who violate such agreements. Bernard M. Baruch made two new suggestions before the United Nations Commission on atomic Energy: (1) That the United States would stop making atomic bombs and dispose of its stock as soon as adequate treaty agreements are concluded with other nations. (2) That there should be no 26. Big Five "veto" on atomic matte1·s. It. should be noted that any one of the Big Five-the permanent members of the United Nations Security Councilcan stop further action on a measure under discussion before it by exercising its "veto power". Bernard M. Baruch proposed that the Big Five "veto" be abolished on atomic matters so as to make possible the execution of swift punishment of nations which might violate the agreement not to develop or use atomic energy for destructive purposes. Signifieanee of the Plan Various heads of the governments of the United Nations, political thinkers, write11s, •and scientists have acclaimed the proposals submitted by Bernard M. Baruch. Some of the scientists who helped create the atomic bombs ha:ve given their unconditional support to the proposals for the international control .of atomic energy. The plan for an international control of atomic energy would be a great advance in international cooperation. The offer of the United States to destroy its stock of atomic bombs will go a long way in abolishing suspicion. J:,ivingston Hartley in his article "Atoms for Peace" wrote that the general adoption of the plan would raise new barriers .against war: it would also greatly increase the pl'estige and importance of the United Nations .... Of fundamental and progressively growing importance would be the contributions of this plan to the relations between the Western Powers 'D.nd Russia. Many existing obstacles, such as lack of intimate contacts and mutual UJ\derstanding, woutd largely be overcome once the far-reaching activities of the international authority were under way." Russian Versus American Proposals. The United States proposed to the Atomic Energy Commission of the United Nations the in· ternational ownership of aII uranium and thorium from which atomic bombs are made. She also made it clear to the Russians that the United States is willing to stop and destroy all atomic bombs as soon as adequate treaty agreements have been concluded with other nations. The Russians, through Andrei Gromyko, delegate to the United Nations Commission on Atom'ic Energy, made it clear that Russia would not surrender its "veto" power in the -discussion of atomic matters, ,.and that Rus~ia is opposed to the proposals of the United States on a sfstem of international inspection of plants engaged in the use of atomic energy. Believing that the United States proposals for atomic· disarmament is a plan to rule the world, Russia flatly rejected the proposals of the United States' before the United Nations Commission on Atomic Energy. Russia counter-proposed that the (Continued , on page 28) Foreign Affairs * Why Me the Bikini Atomic Bomb Tests Significant? BIKINI ATOMIC BOMB TESTS Purposes Col. Millard C. Young said that the main purpose of the atomic bomb tests at Bikini was to find out the effects of the atomic bomb if used against American warships. "We are seeking primarily to learn what critical formations and strategic disposi .. tions will best survive an attack with atomic weapons of other nations should we ever have to face them. By no stretch of the imagination can such steps be construed as a threat to aggression." Vice Admiral W. H. P. Blandly, Commander of Joint Task Force One, said that when the results 0f the atomic bomb tests are tabulated much will be known about designing fighting ships of the future and what defensivte measures should be taken to make them less vulnerable to atomic-bomb attacks. The United States will then also know valuable information on the effects of the atomic bomb attacks on airplanes, tanks, artillery, and other military equipment. Predictions of Results There were various predictions · on the effects of the atomic bomb tests at Bikini before the· actual tests. 1. Commander Brunauer, a member of the joint Army-Navy task force to conduct the atom bomb test at Bikini atoll said: "The tendency will probably be toward fast, smaller ships. The tactics of naval power may be changed. Convoys and any sort of bunching of ships may have to be avoided. Large harbors must be decentralized to avoid destruction by a small number of atomic bombs." 2. Fleet Admiral Chester W. Nimitz once said that the atomic bomb tests may make submarines the capital ships of the future. In an article he wrote entitled "Atomic Age Navy" in Collier's, he wrote: 0 it seems clear that the submarine will profit more from the use of nuclear energy for propulsion than any other type of vessel." 3. H. S. Uhler, professor emeritus of physics at Yale University wrote a letter fu the New York ~fimes in which he expressed fear that the atom bomb test at Bikini might create a chain earthquake which would generate a tidal wave a mile of more high. 4. Vice Admiral W. H. P. Blandly in his address delivered before the New York Herald Tribune youth forum made the following significant comments: "The atomic bomb t~sts will not cause. earthquakes. They will not push up mountain ranges. They will not cause tidal waves. The bottom of the sea will not be Modem Science blown up and gravity will not be destroyed. Landslides of loose coral down slopes of submerged mountains may be started. Fish in the lagoon may be killed but tuna fisheries will not be affected." The Setting of the Bomb Tests "Operation Crossroads" was the name given to the a·tomic bomb tests held at Bikini atoll. Bikini atoll is in the Marshall Islands about 2,000 miles southwest of Hawaii. It has a lagoon about 20 miles long and 12 miles wide. The 160-odd natives of Bikini were moved to another island. It took the United States government more than 6 months to work out the various preparations for the tests. The approximate cost of the laboratory experiment was close to a half a billon dollars. The task force on the July 1 test consisted of more than 200 ships of various types. There were 73 target ships. Among them were the Independence, the Nevada, Arkansas, the Japanese' battleship Nagat(I, the Japanese light-cruiser Sakawa and heavy cruiser Pensacola. Proper steps were taken to record the effects of blast pressures, velocities, temperature, radioactiv~ ity, underwater pressure, and wav~ heights. Trucks, airplanes, tanks, and other pieces of artillery were placed on the decks of target ships to find out the effects of the atomic bomb. Cattle, goats, rats, mice, and pigs were left on the decks to know the effects of the explosion of the bomb on men. Several kinds of instruments were installed and devised to record valuable data. Among them were radio-controlled cameras which were mounted ,on special towers constructed on the island. Television cameras were used to show what that place in the lagoon. Radio-controlled airplanes were assi~ed to find out the effects of the smoke and gases created by the atomic bombs. The Results of the July 1 Test A new type of atomic bomb was carried by a B29 Superfort called "Dave's Dream," a name given in honor of former bombardier and his crew, Captain Dave Semple of .California who lost his life in a B-29 in New Mexico. The bomb was detonated several hundred feet in the air over a formation of ships. The bomb's explosion produced a flash. and a ball of fire. It was predicted that the cloudhead would ascend 60,000 feet. Much to the dissappointment of spectators, the cloudhead pushed to about 40,000 feet. Preliminary official reports given by Vice Admiral Blandly stated that five ships were set on fire. They were the aircrafts Saratoga and Independence, the American cruisers Pensacola, the Japanese (Continued on the next page) * 27 Bikini Atomic Bomb Tests ••• (Continued) cruiser Sakawa and the Japanese battleship Nagato. The American battleship Nevada was not sunk.. The German cruiser Prince Eugene withstood the blast The submarines took the blast successfully. It was reported by the Navy that 59 of the 73 target ships felt the atomic blast. During the first hours the goats which were <>n the decks of the target ships were seen munching hay. After several days the animals were reported dying like flies. It is believed that men on the decks of the target ships would not survive the atomic blast. There was no tidal wave and no e8rthquake as was predicted by some observers. Ln a report submitted by the joint chiefs of Staff of the U. S. Army and Navy to President Truman the following observatioRs were noted: (1) The atomic bomb damaged more ships than ever before been damaged by a single explosion; (2) Sufficient data has been obtained to give vital information on the redesigning of naval vessels in order to minimize injury to superstructur~ and deck personnel; and (3) A vast amount or data on scientific and organized fishing have been secured. Results of the July 25 Test Atom bomb No. 5 was named "Helen of Bikini." It was used for the first world's underwatei: atomic experiment. What were the results of Test Baker? The 26,100-ton battleship Arkansas sank imrhediately. The 33,000-tonSaratoga, the oldest American aircraft carrier sank seven and a half hours after the explosion of the bomb. The destroyer Hughes and the transport Fallen were beached. The Japanese battlehip Nagato sank five days after the -burst of the atomic bomb. The American battle ships New YC1rk and Nevada were damaged. Tentative Conclusions The evaluation reports submitted on the results of the explosion of atomic boll!b No. 4 (called 14 Dave's Dream") and atomic bomb No. 5 (named Helen of Bikini) reveal many valuable po:Lnts. Among them are: 1. The underwater explosion proved more destructive than the air explosion. The air explosion of July 1, 1946 did great harm to superstructures. The underwater explosion of July 25, 1946 threw large masses of highly radio-active water onto the decks and hulls of vessels. The effect would be to burn all living things aboard the vessels. 2. In the air explosion many of the ship's crew would receive fatal doses of neutrons and gamma rays. In the underwater explosion much of the personnel would receive more deadly effects from radioactivity. 3. The results of both tests show the need of changes in the size, design, and structure of naval 28* What shall we do ••• (Continued from page 26) onlY safe way is the "prohibition of production and use of atomic bombs." The Conunission on Atomic Energy of the United Nations made an important progress when Russia withdre\V her insistence on a two-thirds majority vote on all atomic discussions. The Commission agreed that a simple majority would de· cide all discussions on atomic matters. Study Helps Check your silent reading of the article. Fill in each blank with the correct word or group of words: 1. A control plan for the atom should b e - and---. 2. The proposed international plan for the control of atomic energy aims to prevent its---. 3. The two important elements used in the manufactui:e of atomi.c bombs are-and--. 4. The Atomic Development Authority should be given the power to---and---production plants. 5. Steps should be taken to safeguard--operations in 'the nuclear field. 6. The abolition. of the---was advocated by Bernard Baruch. 7. The United States wants an--- - - - of all uranium and thorium. 8. Russia wants the· ----of---and use of atomic bombs. 9. Competition in the fields of atomic energy may lead to-warfare. 10. The control of atomic energy is being undertaken by th.e----vessels to increase protection from both flash and blast effect. Study Helps 1. Hold an open discussion on this topic: The Bikini atomic bomb tests are a waste of money. 2. Po you think the atomic tests will be useful to mankind? How? 3. The Russians once made the statement that the atomic bomb tests were held to impress on small nations the might and strength of the United States. Do you agree with this stateme~t '! Why'! 4. Look for five new words which you think will increase your reading power. List them down. Look for their meanings and use them in sentences. 5. Do you agree with the suggestions that atomic bomb tests should be conducted every year ? Why ? 6. Why were the tests called great "laboratory experiment"? Modern Science Science Spa1·e Parts for the Human Body You have heard of spare parts for the jeeps, but· have you heard of the so-called 41 Spare parts for the human body?" The last World War brought about many interesting discoveries and inventions. The last war has shown how far man could make use of his mental resources to serve his needs. The scientists, for example, have succeeded in makirig body replacements to correct or hide the deformities suffered by the heroes of the last war. Thy have invented plastic fingers, plastic ears, plastic noses, plastic facial parts (such as cheek and lips), artificial plastic eyes, and plastic legs. It is significant to note that further researches are still b!,;!ing conducted to produce more and better body replacements for injuries and deformities resulting from war or from accidents in factories. Scientists are feverishly working on the making of complete hands made of plastic and rubber. These scienticts predict that plastics for disfigurations may soon be made at about the same speed as the artificial teeth. Progress in Aeronautics The most significant achievements in aerOnautics are: 1. The giant B-32 which weighs 50 tons and which flies more than 300 miles an hour. 2. The inauguration of an international freight service. 3. The invention of a device which guides safely the plane through the thickest fog or storm. 4. The invention of a glider capable of carrying 16 men and two tons of freight. The total capacity of this new type of glider is 500 pounds more than that of the previous model which was successfully used in the invasion of Normandy on June 6, 1944: 5. The invention of a special radar equipment which makes landing safe during storms or in heavy fog. 6. The invention of a plane C?mbining features of an automobile and those of an airplane. Such a plane could land on roads and run on city streets. 7. The invention of the :S-29 in 1945, which is capable of cruising an 8,198-mile non-stop flight, from Guam to Washington, at a record speed of 35 hours and 5 minutes. 8. The invention of a fast fighter plane that could carry cargo. The famous P-38 fighter plane is at present being remodeled to make it carry cargo without reducing its speed. Science On--9. The invention of a folding helicopter made of , lightweight alloy. This folding helicopter could be accommodated in a submarine, it will enable submarines to make. long-distance observation. 10. The new gyrospic gunsight invented by the British. This gunsight was greatly responsible for the bringing down of thousands of enemy planes, especially the jet aircrafts. Something New in Oil American scientists have developed new synthetic oils which are far superior to chemicallytreated oil. According to recent experiments, the new oil may be used as lubricant for powdered metal bearings, textile machinery,· wire drawing and transinission. They may be useq also as plastjcizers. Weather Rockets Before the second World War our knowledge of the weather was principally obtained from an instrument-equipped sounding balloons. Recently, a new instrument was invented. This is the "weather rocket" or the "WAC Corporal." This "weather rocket" is shot into the sky at a speed faster than sound. It is P:rovided with parachute which makes its descent g~adual. As it fa11s to earth, it registers conditions which are indispensable to correct forecasting of weather. What are some of the secrets of the sky which may revealed by the "weather rockets?" 1. The many curious electrical pheno)llena of the ionosphere. 2. The true nature of the Aurora Borealis in the Southern Hemisphere. 3. The true nature of the Aurora Polaris. 4. The noctilucent clouds or mother-of-pearl clouds. 5. The distribution of ozone. This is the form oxygen takes in the upper atmospher~ It is believed that the new instrument, the 14 weather rockets," may enable meteorologists to predict the weather more accurately and to fore· cast it seven or eight days ahead instead of five. Valuable Service of the Geige1· Counter The inventors have succeeded in making a device for the detecting the presence of one of the most treacherous weapons of war-the mines. This device is called mine detector. During the battle of North Africa the retreating Axis armies Iara thousands of" mines behind them to check the advance of the Allies. With this device, however, the (Continued on the next page) * 29 ECOnOmlCS zn the nEWS Speeding Up the Sale of Surplus Goods The United States Government was forced to speed up the sale of war surplus goods because of strong and better criticism from the public. The government has been able to dispose every month surplus goods worth $800,000,000. It is expected that by September, the amount may be doubled. The War Assets Administration has taken concrete steps to expand its newspaper and radio advertising to publicize the sales. Sight sales are held in warehouses owned by the government, Army and Nayy camps and stations, storage depots, and war plants. Sight sales are expected to speed up the disposal of war surplus goods. Taxes on War Profits In one of his post-election speeches, President Manuel A. Roxas has recommended the levying of taxes on war profits. Recently, the cabinet has approved the recommendation of the tax commission to impose a levy on wealth accumulated by an individual on or before August 15, 1945, as of December 8, 1941. These taxes will be charged on the increase in the real and personal property of the individual. The graduated taxes are as follows: 50 per cent will be charged on the increase in assessed value of property from P6,000 to P50,000; 60 per cent, from P50,000 to Pl00,000; 70 per cent, from Pl00,000 to P300,000; 80 per cent, from 1'300,000 to 1'500,000; 90 per cent,. from 1'500,000 to Pl,000,000; and 99 per cent, from Pl,000,000 and up. Vital Statistics 1. Decision to honor 1prewar deposits of American citizens which were transferred to the Japanese Bank of Taiwan and Yokohama Specie Bank during the Japanese occupation of the Philippines received praise from the United States. The action of the Philippine National Bank was heartily welcomed. The total deposits involved more than $2,000,000,000. 2. The Z,Uyiit,g capacity of a peso at present a~ cording to the Bureau of Commerce is equivalent to P.23 of its prewar value. 3. The total capital of our 11 operating commercial banks as of July, 1946, ·is P738,822,864, according to the Bureau of Banking. 4. Philippine accounts with the United States treasury amount to P857,165,466. The total amount deposited includes sinking fund balances, PI currency reserves, and other funds. 5. Philippine imports of American goods during May were valued at P50,000,000. Our imports during April were valued at about 1'37,695,000. Philippine exports to the United States dtiring May were valued at P3,4'34,000. Our exports in April were valued at about P3,104,000. 30* A New Economic Role The Philippines is on the spotlight of economic news. It has been disclosed by President Roxas that the Philippines has entered into an agreement with the United States on the sale of Philippine copra, coconut oil, and abaca. The agreement stipulates that the entire Philippine exportable surplus copra, coconut oil, and abaca will be purchased by the United States. The purchase of these Philippine products by the United States does not necessarily mean that these products will be used by the United States. An international agreement has picked up the United States to purchase these products for allocation, by the International Emergency Food Council to nations which need them. This agreement between the United States and the Philippines shows that the Philippines is willing to collaborate in a worlddrive to control the movement and rationing of critical economic goods. New Life to OPA One of the most important economic news af· fecting the welfare of the American people is the continuation of the Office of Price Administration (OPA). The measure signed by President Truman extends the life of OPA until June 30, 1947. The measure was enacted because it is sincerely believed that some form of price control is still necessary. The new measure car:Q.es, however, provisions that guarantee reasonable profits and that pave the way for a free adjustment in prices. It would, for in· stance,. gradually lift the ceiling prices set up for war emergency purposes. Science Marches On ... ( Continded) Allies were able to locate all the mines in their path. If it had not been for this detector, the Allies might have lost thousands of men and might not have succeeded in cornering and out t_iming the retreating Axis armies. At present there is another weapon that needs a far more sensitive detector. It is the radioactive rays. These rays are fatal and very extensive in their destructibility. The most power· ful of these rays are those produced by the explosion of the atomic bomb. For these rays, a very sensitive detector has been recently invented. It is known as Geiger Counter. Tbis detector (1) can record the amount of radium rays or the intensity of X-rays, (2) can detect the presence of radioactive substances in the blood stream or in the sap of plants or anywhere. (Continued on page 33) Economics ~ whY will the Japanese never foruet the u.s.s. Jl!tissouri? The Rise and Fall of the JAPANESE EMPIRE In the previous issues of the Current Events Redew, we reviewed the rise and fall of Mussolii1i's Fascist Italy and the rise and fall of Hitler's Nazi Germany. The defeat of Japan completes the story and fall of the three Axis powers. The rise and fall of the Japanese Empire errtbraced several periods. These were the period of growth, development and seclusion, the reopening of Japan and her Europeanization, the period of internal transformation, the period of expansion in populatioh, industry, and commerce, the period of reorganization of possession and dependenc:es, the triumph of the military clique, and the fall of the "G::.oeater East Asia Co-Prosperity Sphere." 660 B.C.-1853.-Pel'iod of Growth, Development and Seclusion. Japanese historianS claim that their nation was founded in 660 B.C. Form that date onward, Japan made considerable progress. She nurtured her own cultural life and gave to it the stamp of her peculiar genius. Japan during this period was a nation composed of three hundred separate clans. Each clan was under a military governor called a Shogun. 'l'he existence of the Shogunate led to a dual government. The powers of the government were claimed both by the Shoguns and by the Emperor. Less .than hundred years ago, Japan was isolated from the rest of the world. The Shogunate feared that the sovereignty of the natio.n might be overthrown by the foreigners. Accordingly, it issued an edict prohibiting all intercourse with foreign countries. The Dutch were the only people allowed, to trade with Japan, but only under minute regulations a!ld very close supervision. 1853·1867.-Reopening of Japan and Her Europeanization. In 1846 an American Commodore, Biddle, requested the Japanese governinent to reopen the country to the United States. The Shogunate refused the request. The United States, however, was determined. On July 3, 1853, Commodore Perry arrived at Uraga in the Bay of Yedo. He succeeded in having the letter of the President of the United States accepted by the Japanese authorities. After a lapse of seven months, he returned to Japan to receive the answer of the emperor. On March 31, 1854, a. treaty was concluded in which the Japanese government granted most of the requests of the United States. Among these were the opening of the ports of Shimoda and Hakodate to American ships and permission for Americans to trade under certain conditions. Similar treaties were concluded Contemporary Events by Japan with Great Britain, France, Russia and twelve other powers. A group of Japanese who favored the admission of foreigners and the introduction of foreign culture, also believed that the dual government was inadequate in dealing with the Western powers. They, therefore, worked for the restoration of the emperor. As a result of their efforts, the Shogun resigned on October 1~, 1867, and ·the Shogunate was abolished. The dual gO\·ernme"nt came to an end after 1,200 years. 1868-1894.-The Period of Internal Transformation. The end of the Shogunate marked an important period in the rise and fall of the Japanese Empire. It was the beginning of an internal transformation which made Japan great. "When Commodore Perry arrived at Uraga in Tokyo Bay," writes the distinguished Japanese scholar, Masanori Oshima, in his Japan Prom 1¥ithin, "The more intelligent of the Japanese realized at once the superiority of many phases of Western civilization, and -the necessity of improving their own." The Jap::mese government now ordered the reform of the nation along Western ideas. By command •)f "Era of Enlightenment," this "Europeanization of Japan" was undertaken earnestly and seriously. Japanese students and· scholars were sent abrOad to panes students and sdwlars were sent abroad to study foreign culture. Through the study, absorption, adoption, borrowing, and modification of Western ideas made by these students and schola.rs, Japan became a great nation .. 1894-1905.-The Period of Expansion in Population, Industry and Commerce. Japan next entered upon a period of expansion in population, industry, and commerce. During this period she succeeded in establishing her world prestige. Conflicting interests with China over the control of Korea led to the Sino-Japanese war of 18941895. China was badly defeated. By the Treaty of Shimonoseki Japan acquired the Liaotung peninsula in southern Manchuria, as well as Formosa and the Pescadores. China was required to open up the Yangtze River and other treaty ports to the trade of the woTld. Both countries acknowledged the complete ·independence of Korea. With this victory of Japan, it became evident to the Western powers, that the rising nation was a factor to be reckoned with, in the affairs of the Far East. Conflicting interests between Japan and Russia. in Manchuria and Korea, brought about the RussoJ apanese war of 1904-1905. The interests of Russia in Manchuria were primarily political. She * 31 was interested in the domination of Manchuria ·and in her possible annexation of· the territory in case of the collapse of the Chinese Empire. She was also interested in the establishment of a "warm-water port." She had her eye on Korea because it would help protect her against Japan. Japan was interested in Manchuria primarily for economic reasons. She believed that Manchuria would be able to provide her with raw materials for her growing industries and foodstuffs for her increasing population. She was interested in Korea because its possession by Russia would endanger her security. The Russo-Japanese war was ended by the Treaty of Portsmouth signed on September 5, 1908. The important provisions of the treaty were: (a) recognition of Japan's paramount political, military, and economic interests i.n Korea; (b) transfer of the rights of Russia in the Liaotung Peninsula Lo Japan; (c) cession of the southern section of the Manchuriaii railways to Japan; and (d) cession of one half of Sakhalin to Japan. The victo:-y of Japan over Russia led to her recognition as a world power and to the development of a new attitude toward her among the Western nations. The victory inspired the peoples of the East to fight for their national interests and for their right to determine their future. A new spirit of nationalism surged among them. The slogan "Asia for the Asiatics" indirectly began at this time. 1905-1931.-The Period of Reorganization of Possessions and Dependencies. The victory of Japan over Russia inspired her leaders to reorganize, strengthen or increase now her possessiGns and dependencies. Her imperialists now decided to annex Korea. In August, 1910, she forced Korea to sign a treaty annexing that country to Japan. At the same time, she carried on a peaceful economic penetration of Manchuria and China. Under the Teraty of Versailles, Japan received the rights of Germany in the province of Shantung. These rights pertained to (a) the Kiaochow leasehold; (b) the Ts'ngtao-Tsinan Railway; (c) three mines; and (d) all public property of the German3. Japan also received a mandate for the Marshall and Caroline islands. By 1920 she was protected by strategic islands-the Kuriles in the north and the complex mandated islands in the south. Taking advantage of i he participation bY the European powers in World War I and aware of the weakness of the Chinese government, Japan presented to the latter her notorious Twenty-one Demands. Japan needed addit~Onal sources of raw materials for her expanding industries, and was, therefore, desirous of completing her economic penetration of China. She also needed extra markets for her products. Under threat of possible arm~d ac32. tion, China was forced to accept the demands. ·Thus by means of these derpands, supplemented by threats, Japan established her hegemony on the continent of Asia. And by s,uccessive agreements with RuSsia, England, France, Italy, and the United States, she safeguarded her supremacy against attacks from the outside world. Japan as a world po¥J;er made several important agreements and alliances. Among these were: (a) th.e Russo-Japanese Treaty of 1916; (b) certain important treaties of World War I; (c) member· ship i·n the League of Nations; (d) participation in the Washington Naval Conference of 1922; (e) participation in the Geneva Parley for the limitation of cruisers, destroyers, and submarines; and Jf) particfpation in the London Naval Conference of 1930 for the reduction of armaments. 1931-1941.-The Triumph of the Military Clique. This period was marked by the triumph of military forces in Japan. Before the abolition of the Shogunate, Japan was practically under the rule of the military clan. This -rule was abolished by the people who believed in the restoration of the direct rule of the emperor. In the early twenties, however, the rule of the military class was again revived. In 1922, Japan adhered to the Washington N:nePower Treaty. Since then the struggle between the enfranchised people and the military forces became acut.e. Edgar Snow, in his book, The Battle of Asia, (reprinted in 1944), has observed that strong popular pressure, forced drastic reduction of a disarmament program for the. army. The army and navy, which were responsible for the victory of Japan in the three wars she had fought since 1895, would not sealy give up its prestige. In 1931, radical young officers'·in the army plotted the "Mukden lncid~nt." Edgar Snow remarks that the Japanese invasion of Manchuria was undertaken to recover militarY control of Japan. With this event, the period of anti.militarism and anti-imperialism in Japan ended. Japan invaded Manchuria on September 18, 193.l and on March 9, 1932, established it as the· socalled Empire of Manchukuo. This was the firllt puppet state in the 11 Greater East Asia Co-Prosperity Sphere" envisioned by Baron Tanaka. It's establishment enabled Japan to extend her economic and political penetration in that region. Japan took other imPortant steps to strengthe!l her position in China. She demanded that China should recognize the five northern provinces of Hopei, Shami, Suiyan, Hinan, and ShR1J1.tung as part of the territory of Manchukuo. In 1935, troops of the Japanese Kwantung army came through the Great Wall north of Peiping, from Jehol into the province of Chahar, which lies between Jehol and Mongolia. The Japanese then dismissed the principal Chinese official in Peiping, Tientsin, Hopei, Contemporary Events and Chahar. On July 7, 1937, the Japanese made a full-scale invasion of China. The hostilities started at the Marco Polo bridge outside of Peiping. Subsequently, the Chinese were driven from North China. Japan then set up a so-called independent government in Peiping which she styled "The Provisional Government of the Republic of China." In 1938, she established a second regime which she called "The New Reformed Government of the Republic of China." In the opening months of 1939, Japan seized the Isla.nd of Hainan which served as a base for further Japanese operations against southwest China and against French Indo-China. Spratley, Islands were also seized. Thes& islands are conveniently close to the Philippines and Borneo. The territorial expansion of Japan took a new tum after the outbreak of the, war in Europe on September 1, 1939. The Fall of _France on June 22, 1940, gave the Japanese an opportunity to infiltrate into French Indo-China. Through clever and secret diplomacy, they succeeded in having the French in Indo-China capitulate to. their demands. That was on September 22, 1940. Five days later Japan beCame a full-pledged member of the Berlin-RomeTokyo military alliance. The Japanese militarists made two other significant moves to dominate Asia. One was Japan's acquisition of a position of controlling influence in Thailand in 1940 and 1941. The other was her negotiation with Russia Which finally led to the conclusion of a non-aggression pact on April 13, 1941 between the two countries. 1941-1945.-The Fall of the "Greater East Asia CoProsperity Sphere." The "Greater East Asia Co-Prosperity Sphere" was originally advocated by General Baron Tanaka. On page 29 of the Tanaka Memorial submitted to the Japanese emperor in 1927, the following significant words appeared. "In the future if we want to control China, we must first crush the United States, just as in the past we had to fight in the Russo-Japanese war. But in order to conquer China we must first conquer Manchuria and Mongolia. In order to conquer the world, we must first conquer China. If we succeed in conquering China the rest of the Asiatic countries and the South Sea countries will fear us and surrender to us. Then the world will realize that Eastern. Asia is ours and will not dare to violate our rights. This is the plan· left to us by Emperor Meiji, the success of which is essential to our national existence." The plan envisaged bY Premier Tanaka was carried out by the various Japanese military leaders. It was primarily to realize this grandiose plan that Japan finally decided to wage the Pacific war. On December 7, 1941, she bombed Pearl Harbor in Hawaii. The European war thus became a global war. In less than six months after the atContemporary Event~ tack, Japan realized her dream of conquering and dominating East Asia, except India and Australia. "As the Japanese offensive slowed in June, 1942," writes Mn,p;alk, an army newS magazine formerly published by the Information and Education Section, General Headquarters of the United States Army Forces of the Pacific, "the J apaJiese war lords could look back upon a p'eriod of conquest . unparalled in history. They. had driven us and the other western powers out of all our holdings in Asia and the western Pacific. They had conquered some of th~ richest terri.tory in the world. Formerly a 'havenot' nation, Japan now held the bulk of the world's natural rubber supply, and plentY of oil and mineral resources. She had at her disposal hundreds of mi).t:ons of unskilled native laborers." The counter offeilsive of the Allies against Japan .began on August 7, 1942, when landings were made on Tulagi and Guadalcanal. The road back to the Philippines was long. The way for' the final assault on the fortress of Tokyo was still longer. Allied power was, however, superior to that of Japan. The Allies had the resources, the skill, the strategy. This superiority finally broke Japan. On August 14, 1945, the Japanese government accepted the terms of unconditional surrender_ indicated in the Potsdam Declaration issued on July 27, .1945. Its representatives signed the fa1siru-ment of surrender aboard the U.S.S. Missouri. Thus <lid the "Greater East Asia Co-Prosperity Sphere" come to a historic end. In regard to this great event, P:resident Harry Truman spoke thus to the world over the radio: "Four years ago the thought and fears of the whole civilized world were centered on another piece of American soil-Pearl Harbor. The mighty threat of civilization which began there is now at r~st. "It was a long road t'o Tokyo-and a bloody one. "We shall not fe>rget Pearl Harbor. "The Japanese militarists Will not forget the U.S.S. Miss<mri." Science Marches On ... (Continued from page 30) New Products from Nylon \Vhat is nylon? The dictionary defines it as a synthetic protein-like product which may be formed into fibers or sheets of great elasticity and toughness. The fibers are an excellent substitute for silk in making hosie)"y. The latest contribution of science to the use of nylon is the preparation of nylon in sheet form which could be made into shoes, handbags, briefcases, and wallets. Progress in Medicine Many new discoveries have been made in the science of medicine. ( 1) Scientists have found new ways of giving penicillin-by mist inhalations, by (Continued on page 35) • 33 * What is the significance of the Surr~nder Instrument in the life of the Japanese? SURRENDER INSTRUMENT FOR JAPAN The Setting A year ago, on September 2, 1945, the surrender instrument ending the Japanese Empire was signed on· board the U.S.S. Missouri. Foreign Minister Shigemetsu and General Umezu signed for Japan. Gen. nouglas MacArthur signed for all nations at war with Japan. The following representatives signed fdr their respective countries: Admiral Chester Nimitz - United States of America General Hsu Yung-chang-China Admiral Sir Bruce Fraser-United Kingdom Lieutenant General Kuzma Niokolaevich Derevyanko - Russia General Sir Thomas Blarney - .Australia Colonel Lawrence Moore-Crosgrave-Canada General Jacques Pierre Leclerc - France Admiral Conrad E. L. Helfrich-Netherlands Air Vice Marshal Leonard M. Isitt-New Zealand Provisions of the Surt'ender Instrument 11 (1) We, acting by command of and in behalf of the Emperor of Japan, the Japanese Gove'rnment, and the Japanese Imperial General Headquarters, hereby accept the provisions in the declaration issued by the heads of the Governments of the United States, China, and Great Britain, July 26, 1945, at Potsdain, and subsequently adhered to by the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics, which four Powers are hereafter referred to as the Allied Powers. "(2) We hereby proclaim the unconditional surrender to the Allied Powers of the Japanese Imperial Generai Headquarters and of all Japanese armed forces and of all armed forces under control whereever situated. "("3) We hereby command all Japanese forces, wherever situated, and the Japanese peop1e to cease hosti1ities forthwith, to preserve and save from damage all ships, aircraft and military and civil property and to comply with all requirements which may be imposed by the Supreme Commander for the AlUed Powers or by agencies of the ·Japanese Government at his direction. "(4) We hereby command the Japanese Imperial General Headquarters to issue at once orders to the commanders of all Japanese forces and all forces under Japanese control, wherever situated, to surrender unconditionally themselves and all forCes under their control. "(5) We hereby command all civil, military, and naval offiicals to obey and enforce all · proclamations, orders, and directives, deemed by the Supreme Commander for the Allied Powers to be pro34. per to effectuate this surrender and issued by him or under his authority, and we direct all such officials to remain at their posts and to continue to perform their nonc9mbatant duties unless specifically relieved by h~m or under his authority. "(6) We hereby undertake for the Emperor, the Japanese Government and their successors to carry out the provisions of the Potsdam Declaration in good faith, and to issue whatever orders and take whateve:- action may be required by the Supreme Commander for the Allied Powers for the purpose of giving effect to that declaration. 11 (7) We hereby command the Japanese Imperial Governil'lent and the Japanese Imperial General Headquarters at ohce to liberate all Allied prisoners of war and civilian inter~ees now under Japanese control and to provide for their protection, care, maintenance, and immediate transportation to places as directed. "(8) The authority of the Emperor and the Ja~ anese Government to rule the state shall be subject to the Supreme Commander for the Allied Powers, who will ~ake such steps as he deem~ proper to effectuate these terms of surrender." Study Helps .1. What is meant by unconditional surrender? Why was it necessary for the occupation of-Japan? 2. What st~ps were taken by the Supreme Commander for the Allied Powers (SCAP) to insure the unconditional surrender <>f Japan' were these steps necessary ? Why ? 3. Explain why the authority of the Emperor was placed under the authority of the Supreme Commander for the Allied Powers. 4. Explain the meaning of these terms: directives, adhere, effectuate, and surrender instrument. ~ For neat jobs -* Circular Letters * Business Forms * Posters * Manifests * Lecture Notes * Textbooks -& Outlines * Classroom Tests * Programs MANLAPAZ PUBLISHING CO. Editors - Mimeographers - Bookbinders Artists - Designers - Illustrators 123-125 Reten, Sampaloc, Manila Documents Science Marches On (Continued from page 33) injection into artery for severe infections, by mouth in the form of lozenges, gelatin capsules, or compounds, especially with .sodium citrate. (2) P~o fessor Harold Raistrick discovered a new effective medicine for common cold, He calls it patulin. This new medical discovery is derived from the mold that produces penicillin. (3) Medical scientists -have succeeded in transplanting the heart of one warm-blooded animal to another. ( 4) Dr. Thomas ·s. Gardner has succeeded in increasing the life span of mice by 9% by feeding the micP. with speci_al food prepared out of nucleic acid. (5) A new effective medicine for the protection of children against measles has been found, according the Journal of the American Medical Association. It is called gamma globulin. (6) A new antibiotic, known as ·Tomatin, has just been found in tomatoes. It has been shown that this new antibiotic kills the fungi that Cause diseases in plants and animals. The Role of Secret W capons World War II greatly enhanced the growth of science. All the major nations which fought the war made full use of science. 'l'hey all mobilized their best scientists for a total war. In fact, the war was fought and won by science. Science produced such great inventions as the radar, the atomic bomb, the V-1 rocket bomb (buzz bomb), the V-2 rocket bOmb (vengeance bomb) and the VT.:.fu:~td missile. These secret weapons were the decisive factors in the major battles during ':vorld '\Var II. Radar was effectively used on land, on sea, and in the air. In the air, the radar guided bombers to their targets through fog, snow, and clouds. On land, it located enemy tanks. At sea,. it gave the exact position of unseen targets. The atomic boriJ.b .was the ultimate cause of the unconditional surrender of Japan. The V-1 and the V-2 were the German secret weapons used against Britain and against the invasion forces of the Allies in France. The VT fused missile stopped the V-bomb bombardment of England. This_ missile could accurately hit the fastest flying bombs or suicide planes. It was succesfully used against the Japanese Kamikaze planes or suicide planes. Study Helps Check your silent reading of the article. - Write True on the blank if the statement" is true,; write False if the statement is false. - - 1. Geiger counter is the same as mine detector. - - 2. The V-1 and the V-2 are rocket bombs. - - 3. P3:tulin is a new antibiotic. Science Republic of the Philippines Department of Public Works and Communications BUREAU OF POSTS Manila SWORN STATEMENT (Required by Act No. 2580) The undersigned, Delfin R. Manlapaz, publisher of Current Events Review, published monthly in English at Manila, after having been duly sworn in accordance with law, hereby submits the following statement of ownership, management, circulation, etc., which is required by Act No. 2580, as amended by Commonwealth Act No. 201: Name Post-Office Address Editor-Diosdado G. Capino . 123-125 Reten, Manila Owners-Capino & Manlapaz " Publisher-D. R. Manlapaz .. Printer-National Printing Co. Lepanto, Manila Office of Publication ....... 123-125 Reten, Manila Bondholders, mortgagees, or other security holders owning one per cent or more of total amount of security: None. In case of publication other than daily, total number of copies printed and circulated of the last issue, dated August, 1946: 1. Sent to paid subscribers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . l84l( 2. Sent to others than paid subscribers . . . 3158 Total (Sgd.) D.R. Manlapaz Publisher 5000 StJ.bscribed and sworn to before me this 7th day. of October, 1946 at Manila, Philippines, the affiant exhibiting his Residence Certificate No. A-2582631 issued at Manila on April 8, 1946. Monico Bumanglag Post Office Inspector - - 4. Penicillin may be given by moUth. - - 5. Radioactive subtances may be located _by the Gei.ger' counter. - - 6. Nylon may be used for wallets and handbags. - - 7. Children may be protected from measles by Tomatin. - - 8. VT-fused missiles_ contribrite to the accuracy of gun fire. - - 9. Enemy tanks can be located by the Vengeance ·weapons. --10. The life span of the mice can be increased. * 35 Philippine High School Series Cumulative Unit Systeni Outlines of Lessons and Reference Materials b~sed on the Courses of Study prepare.d )ly the Bureau of Education, Manila ECONOMICS for Philippine High Schools CELESTE * CA PINO * ELLA * Copies of this book are now available for use in ,Special, Abridged Classes for High Schools. * lnstruetors who wish to examine this book for its possible use in their classes may request for complimentary copies. MANILA MANLAPAZ PUBLISHING CO. 1946 -~!~~'"1 MANILA EDUCATIONAL ENTERPRISES ~ (INCORPORATED) 533 P. 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