Current Events Review

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Part of Current Events Review

Title: Current Events Review
Issue Date: Vol. III (No. 7) January 1948
Year: 1948
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extracted text: ewsmagazine published for high school students devoted to the selection, organization, presentation, and review of current news for lessons in current events. (Approved for general reading by the Department of Instruction) ( Recom!!'ended for use in all Catholic schools by the CEAP) (Approved for use as Reference Material by the Office of Private Education) e Why is Geopolitics a Cau~Tili' . ~ of World Conflicts? JI'<J.1J:.ta.l.ba e Why Must Italy be Saved by the Democracies? ,,.. e What has the General Assembly plished in Its Second Session? e Wh<>tL,weak~es:~s · ,/ o;z:~~nited N~iOns? / x, ' come at is the Futul-e of the United Nations? e How s Burm)( Succeeded in Her Strugg ,fer Freedom? Vol. III, No. 7 January, 1948 30 cfftltavos ExcELLENT IS OUR RATING WHEN mu read the CUitlu<:NT EVENTS REVIEW you will understand world developments because it presents and analyzes news and their significance. The magazine completes and makes up-to-date the study of history and other ~ocial science. subject.El.· The Director of the United States lnfomtation Service rates the CURREN'I! EVENTS REVIEW as an EXCELLENT publication. DEPARTlllENT OF STATE Office of International Informal ion and Cultural Affairs 2'rlr. D. R. ~lanlapaz, Publisher Current Events Re-':ie"· 123-125 Reten Sa.mpaloc. l\fa.nila Dear Mr. l\lanlapaz: December 2-1. 194ti I havl.:! ju:;t seen for the fir::;t time a copy of your ''Current Events Review" for high school students. This seems to me an excellent publication for keeping your schools informed of world developments. We have now put your publication in our regular release list. I should be glad to furnish any other cooperation that we possibly can in pl"oviding your readers with information. Plea•e feel free to call upon us at anytime. CP: jm lincl. Sincerely yours, (Sgd.) Catherine Porte1 Director, USIS CURRENT EVENTS REViEW A newsmagazine that completes and makes up-to-date the study of history and other social science subjects. In this issue- Page Why is Geopolitics a Cause of World Conflicts? 194 Why Must Italy be Saved by the Democracies? 198 What has the General Assembly Accomplished in Its Second Session? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 201 What are the Weaknesses of the United Nations? . . . . . . . . . . . . 205 What is the Future of the United Nations? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 209 How has Burma Succeeded in Her Struggles for Freedom? . . . . 211 The Philippines and the World . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 215 .Significant World News Roundup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 217 Science Marches Or. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 221 Published monthly except May and June by MANLAP AZ PUBLISHING CO. 123-125 Reten, Sampaloc, Manila Subscription: P3.00 a year, Pl.50 a semester, 30 centavos per copy. When changing address give old as well as new address. Address all communications to the Current Events Review. Copyright, 1948 by D. R. Manlapaz and D. G. Capino. All rights reserved. Entered as second-clasa mail matter January 9, 1947 at the Manila post-office. DIOSDADO G. CAPINO Editor D. R. MANLAP AZ Publisher NICOLAS ONGKINGKO Circulation Manager POLICARPIO G. DANGALIO DOMINGO C. SERION Researchers VENANCIO NEBRIDA Circulation Representative Why is there a struggle for the world? Why is Geopolitics a Cause of World Conflicts ? Speeific objectives: 1. Tb understand the science of geopol'itics 2. To understand why geopolitics is the main cause of world conflicts 3. To appreciate the significance of geopolitics Two years and a half have passed since liberation, and still the main ;peace problems of the world remain unsettled. The peacemakers of the world are doing everything to settle these problems, but there are numerous factors that prevent them from putting into effect the immediate solutions to these problems. One of these factors is the geopolitics. What is geopolitics? How may it work against the peace of the world? Why is it the main cause of world conflicts? What is meant by geopolitics? As a science, geopolitics is a combined and coordinated study of geography, history, and politics; but as a practice it is an application of these studies for selfish advantage. The studies are made use of by a nation to explain and predict the behavior of other nations within their boundaries and towards other nations so that such nation might control or take advantage of those nations. By science we mean a systematically organized body of knowledge based on universal princi,ples or laws. In this sense, geopolitics is not an exact science because it deals mainly with people and their institutions. "The merit of this science lies in the answer which it can give in support of proofs 194. proved by history in a high percentage of cases." Who is the father of geopolitic,s? An Englishman, Sir Harford Mackinder, was the first to present the theory that a nation which dominates a certain land mass, lying partly in Europe and partly in Asia, would be able to control the whole world. In a map drawn by him in 1904 ·Mackinder pictured the world as a body of water surrounded by several l'and masses. One land mass is made up of Asia, Africa, and Europe. This is called World Island. The other smaller land masses are made up of North and South America and Australia. According to Mackinder, within the .World Island there is a vast area. This he called Heartland. In the light of this picture, he made a warning as follows: (1) Whoever rules East Europe commands the Heartland. (2) Whoever rules the Heartland commands the World Island. ( 3) Whoever rules the World Isl'and commands the world. What are the factors involved in the study of geopolitics? There are six factors that affect the behavior of a nation: (1) size and shape of the country; (2) location of the country; ( 3) climate of the country; ( 4) people of a country; (5) natural resources and industry of a country; and ( 6) political and social make-up. These factors determine whether or not a naCurrent Events Review, Jan. 1948 tion is a world power and what its future actions are likely to be. How does size and shape of a country aff et;t its importance in the world? The last World War has shown us several good examples of how the size and shape of a country determine its place in the world. Russia is a large country. The Russian army was able to withdraw successfully from the offensives of the German army because of the vastness of Russian territory. She was '\ble to trade space for time. A contrast to Russia is Holland. Being a small country, Holland failed to ward off the invasion of Germany in spite of the undaunted courage of her people. How does the location of a country influence its role in the world? The geogra,phy of a country has a great deal to do with its character. Because of her geographical condition, the United States needs a two-ocean navy to defend itself. Likewise, England being a small island country needs a powerful navy to defend itself. An island country needs a navy to be powerful. Conversely, a country that h~s no access to the sea has no need of a navy. The nature of the nearness of a country to its neighbors also influences its character. The nearness of Manchuria to Russia and Japan, for example, has been the cause of continual conflict between Russia and Japan. So is Poland, because it is situated between two powerful nations-Russia and Germany. Poland was the battle ground in the last world war. For similar reason Russia successfully fought to bring Poland within the "Iron Curtain" as a precaution for an attack from the "West". World Affairs How does climate affect the character of a nation? Climate often limits the activities of a people. The polar regions are undeveloped because of intense cold. Similarly, the activities of the :Peoples in the equatorial regions are slow and restricted because of extreme heat. In temperate countries,. the climate is favorable to unlimited and strenuous activities. Geography shows that powerful countries are found in temperate regions. How do the people influence the character of a nation? The manpower for war or peace is supplied by the people. It is the people that grow the food, work the factories, and man the guns. Shortage of labor hinders the economic progress of a nation. Marshall Petain attributed the defeat of France in World War II to the relative smallness of French population. Opposite to this is the overpopulation of Japan,· which was the main factor in her conquest of Manchuria. How do the nation's natural resources and industries affect its influence in the world? Natural resources are important both in war and in peace. Ja,pan fought to get the raw materials of Manchuria; Italy, to get the raw materials of Ethiopia; and Germany, to -get the raw materials of Austria. The need for the raw materials was one of the principal reasons for the Japanese, Italian, and German imperialistic activities. The development of Japanese indus· tries made her one of the big powers. Similarly, Germany's synthetic industries contributed much to. her strength in World War JI. But most apparent of all was the . superiority of Ametjca in industries and resources, which was mainly responsible for the victory of the Allies. * 195 How do political ideologies and social ideas make countries different? Geopoliticians spend time in the study of the political ideologies and social ideas of a ,people. They take much pains in determining whether the people like totalitarianism or democracy. They also pay special attention to the political principles of the national readers. Wha.t is the reason? An accurate knowledge of the political ideals of the leaders and the political leanings of the people enables ·one to estimate the character of a nation. A negative. ex:.. ample of this is the case _of Germany. Because of the Allies' inaccllrate knowledge of the political and social ideal$ of the German ,people and their leaders, Germany was forcibly made a d~mocra cy. But Germany having had no training in democracy and having different political and social backgrounds and leanings finally became a dictatorship. What are the applications of ge'Opolitical studies? The study of geopolitics is directed towards certain important conclusions. lt is intended to determine (1) the power of a nation and (2) its weaknesses. The conclusions derived from such study may greatly influence the behavior of a nation possessed of such knowledge. ExMajor General Karl Haushofer, founder of the Institute of Geo.politics in Munich, Germany, for example, influenced Adolf Hitler. In his book Mein Kampf (My Struggles) Hitler based his policies on Haushofer's geopolitical conclusions. Hitler wrote: "Germany will be either a World Power, or wHl not be at all. To be a Wor,ld Power, however, it requires that size which nowadays gives its necessary importance to such a power, and which gives life to its citizens." Geopolitics served Germany and Japan in two ways: First, it ,provided valu196 able ideas for planning the master strategy for World War II and the plan of both Germany and Japan was to conquer the world. Second geopolitics was made use of by the German and Japanese leaders for propaganda to win the support of their peoples in a war of aggression. How i.s geopolitics related to the peaceful settlement of world problems? Geopolitics makes use of the studies in geography, politics, and history in the interpretation of world conditions. Such knowledge may be used for selfish advantage. The big ,powers today, however, realize the need of global peace. They rhave seen that a nation acting for its own selfish interest necessarily harms other nations. In the light of this fact, they have concluded that collective action is necessary to prevent a nation from breaking the peace of the world. Our present geopoliticians today believe that int~rnational cooperation is fundamentai in the preservation of peace. This is the very purpose of the United Nations. And time alone. could tell how far the United Nations would succeed in working out the true formula for world peace in the light of geopolitics. What is the relation of Russiari geopolitics and world peace? Russia became the strongest power in Europe after World War II. Russia now controls eight and a half million square miles of territory or about onesixth of the world's surface. Her size and climate are generally favorable. Soviet population is about 200 million. One of every 11 of the ;population of the world is a Russian citizen. Although she has a large population, many Russians, however, are behind in initiative and scientific know-how. Russia has Current Events Review, Jan. 1948 many rich natural resources. She is almost self-sufficient, except for natural rubber. She has not made, however, full use of her natural resources. One major obstacie to her full economic development is the absence of individual incentive. Under her economic system there is no free enterprise. This is so, because Russia is totalitarian, and under such form of government the interests of the individual are subordinated to the interests of the state. Naturally, there is no political freedom. Socially, the economic system is controlled by the government. All the land and productive facilities are owned by the government and are operated under complete government control. Soviet geopolitics presents the following advantages: its huge area, its large and growing population, its powerfi.Jl land armies, its active leadership of world communism, and its aggressive foreign policy. Against these, however, are the following disadvantages: backward and undeveloped industrial system, shortage. of skilled manpower, and lack of consumer goods. Shortage in food, consumer goods, and heavy industries are ,potent factors that easily bring about war weariness. Two alternatives remain for Russia: cooperation with the United Nations or unilateral action in solving the Problems of the world. Russia's recent actions in the United Nations show that Russia is not cooperating wholeheartedly with the United Na'tions. She appears to choose unilateral action for the solution of world problems.' Geopolitics is a cause of world conflicts Russia's desire for power, security, and prestige is an important consideration in the settlement of world peace. Russia desires security. She fears invasion from the "Western capitalistic World Affairs powers." For this reason she has absoiibed many countries in Eastern Europe. Russia wants pr-estige to tecover her loSt prestige in World War II. She has taken active leadership in the revival of the Third International so as to hasten the spread of world communism. According to Soviet leaders "conflict is inevitable between Communism and Ca,pitalism." This view necessarily forces RusSia to take up the leadership in the spread of communism for selfish reason. Russia's f:oreign policy, therefore, is a war against capitalism. Exercises to Develop Thinking 1. Explain why knowledge of the principles of geopolitics is important in the understanding of world affairs. 2. Discuss why the following state·ment is true: "The true meaning of events now taking shape in the world will be more clear if certa'.in geopolitical facts are understood." Explain why the following are sore spots in world politics: a . Palestine e. Korea b. Dardanelles f. Dairen c. Ruhr g. Greece d. Trieste 3. Give other examples to show how geopolitical facts influence world peace. 4. Do you believe that the Russian policy of spreading Communism is related to geopolitics? Why? 1 5. Is the U. S. economic aid to Greece and Turkey related to geopolitics? Why? 6. How is the "rebirth" of the. Third International related to geopolitics? 7. Is there truth in the Russian charge that the Marshall Plan is an example of American imperialism? Why? 8. What geopolitical facts forced the leaders of the world to build the United Nations? (Please turn to page 204) ,,,. 197, is Italy worth saving? Why Must Italy be Saved by the Democracies ? Specific objectives: 1. To understand the nature and significance of the present problems of Italy. 2. To know the reasons why Italy must be saved. 3. To appr~ciate the importance of Italy in the democratic world. One great question confron.ting the democratic countries today is: Will Italy become a Communist nation? Will the Italians succumb to the honeyed piomises of the Commtinists? Recent events in Italy show that something must be done to solve her problems. What are these problems? Why must Italy be saved? What is her future? Italy and the Italians Italy is a boot-shaped peninsula in southern Europe. It extends from the Alps nearly to the coast of Africa. It is the most populous COl.!ntry in the Mediterranean Sea. It covers an area of 119, 714 square miles and is inhabited by more than 45,000,000 people. Before World War II Italy had an emJ>ire consisting of Libya and Tripolitania in northern Africa, some islands in the Aegean Sea, populat.ed by Greeks, and Eritrea in East Africa and Somaliland. In addition, Italy also occupied Ethiopia. Itafy has fertlle valleys. -Most of these valleys are isolated. These valleys yield wheat, corn, grapes, oranges, and dairy products. In addition to these products, Italy produces plenty of silk and wool. In fact, her textile industry is very important to her economy. She has, however, to import cotton, and she is very deficient in mineral resources, especially coal and iron. She has no 198" oil. Her only big mineral resources are sulphur fl,nd mercury. Democracy delayed in Italy From the fall of the Roman empire in 576 A. D. until 1870 Italy was a disunited country. In 1871, however, through the efforts of Italian nationalists,-Count qavour and Garibaldi,Italy became a united nation. Demo~ra cy, which, then, was sweeping Europe, was delayed in Italy because of poverty, illiteracy, the long-continued conflict between the Italian king and the Pa,pacy, and the strong oligarchy which ruthlessly stamped the rise of democracy. After Italy had become united, she gradually became a great country. She enlarged her army and navy, and formed alliances with Austria and Germany. Her relation with the Church was improved. Later, democratic social legislations were introduced, and by 19111 Italy was already a democratic· nation. Italy became Fascist Italy joined World War I on the side of the Allies, and she emerged from World War I as a victor. But the Italians were not given their proper share of the spoils of the war. She was not given the territories in the Balkans and the Near East promised in the secret treaty of London. Italy faced numero\IS problems after World War I - unemployment, large debt, inflation, soaring prices, and discontentment arising from her failure to secure the. spoils of the war she expected. As the last resort in the solution of their numerous problems, the disCurrent Events Review, Jan. 1948 contented veterans, the patriots, the unemployed, the peasants, and the factory workers joined the Fascist party founded on March 23, 1919. The Fascists considered themselves the saviors of Italy. On the famous March to Rome in October, 1922, Mussolini became dictator of Italy. Italy became a Fascist country. The triumph of Mussolini was a severe blow to the democracies. Italy became a republic In the last World War, Italy was liberated by the Allies on June 6, 1944. After liberation, Italy was first governed by the Allied Military Goverment of Occupied Territory (AMGOT). Prince Umberto was made '1 Lieutenant-General of the Realm." In 1945 the government was unsettled. The Cabinet was changed many times and the members were drawn from six parties. Later, a Consultative Assembly was organized. It was composed of 10. committees. On June 3, 1946, a national election was held. Twenty-four million men and women went to the polls to vote on whether they would like to retain the monarchy or to have a republic. The election showed that 12,672,000 were in favor of the republic and 10,688,000 were in favor of the retention of the monarchy. The decision at the polls ended the 900 year old House of Savoy. For the first time since JUiius Caesar crossed the Rubicon in 49 B. C., Italy has again become a republic. King Umberto II, the last Italian monarch, went in exile. What are the problems of Italy today? Italy now faces serious economic and political problems. What are these problems? First, her industrial production is only 61 per cent of her production in 1938. Second, her exports are only 28 per cent of the 1938 figure. World Problem Third, her imports are 50 per cent of the 1938 figure. The value of the lira is very much less than that of the French franc. The prices of food have doubled. According to latest reports, the daily menu for the average Italian consists of one half pound of bread, a sliver of cheese, and according to the New York Times, perhaps a vegetable and a bit of oil. Her supply of dollars is dwindling. Italy spends $40,000,000 a month for imports of essential commodities from the United States. Eighth, there are three million unemployed Italians who are living on Government handouts. Ninth, Italy is still suffering from the effects of the Facists' policies under Benito Mussolini. During the Fascist regime, Italy failed to develop her resources fully because much of her energy was spent in developing the resources of the conquered colonies. And on top of all these the peace treaty recently signed . by Italy deprives her of her colonies which were the sources of raw materials for her industries. Italy must now build her trade with the world to survive. The tenth problem of Italy is political. The economic problems of Italy have their political significance. The economic problems have brought about the fall of seven Italian gorernments. The eighth government was recently formed under Premier Alcide de Gasperi, head of the Christian Democratic party. Gasperi believes that the government must include all important parties so as to enable the government to cope with Italy's serious problems. What does this situation show? "Italy's most serious problem," wrote Ferdinand A. Hermens in WhiCh Road Italy? "then, arises from the fact that political power is divided between several parties in such a manner that none of them has, or ever will have, a majority either by itself, or in combination with groups sufficiently similar to itself, to make a consistent policy possible." * 199 Will the Communists control Italy? The national elections held on June 2, 1946, showed that the Christian Democrat, the Socialist, and the Communist obtained the largest number of seats. Party Votes Seats Christian Democrats .. 8,083,208 207 Socialist . . . . . . . . . . . . 4,744.749 115 Communist .......... 4,342,722 104 National Democratic Union . . . . . . . . . . . . l,559,417 41 Uomo Qualunque .... 1,209,918 30 R~publican .......... 997,690 23 National Freedom Bloc. 636,493 16 Action Party ........ 333,758 7 The government at first included Socialists, Communists, and Christian Democrats. The coalition Cabinet fared well in 1946 and in the early part of 1947. In May, 1947, Premier Alcide de Gasperi resigned because he believed that a broader Italian cabinet was needed to cope with the problems of Italy, such as inflation, strikes, and food shortage. The Communists failed to do anything. De Gasperi. was again given a chance to form a cabinet. He warned the Communists to cooperate in the solution of Italy's problems. The Coll>Illunist party in Italy is trying very hard to strengthen itself. According to the latest report the membership of the party numbers 2,500,000 under the leadership of Moscow-trained Palmiro Togliatti. The Communists in ltaly are dem,anding more food for workers and more money for farm laborers. The Communists are determined to get into the government in order to control it. To attain their end, they resort to propaganda. They make the people believe that the troubles of Italy would end only if the Italian people would forget the ties with the. United States. Obviously, this propaganda is intended to prevent the operation of the Marshall Plan. 200" In the elections held in ihe various municipalities at the end of October, 1947, the Communist party received a setback. It lost ground and prestige. What were the reasons for this setback? First, there is popular disapprbval of the strikes called by the Communists. Second1 the revival of the Comintern showed the true color of the Communists in Italy, The people realized that the Italian Communists are linked with the Russian Communists . Third, the Italians fear the Yugoslavs. The Italians want to get Trieste and the Slavs also want to have it. It is feared that the Comintern might finally dominate Italy's political life. Fourth, the opposition of the Communists to the Marshall Plan is looked at by non-Red Italians as a setback to Italy's recovery. What is the future of Italy? The New York Times asked the question: Will Italy become Communist? The answer to this question was partly revealed by the result of the last national election held on June 2, 1946, in which the Communist party obtained 19% of the vote. Again, in the last munic~pal election held in October, 1947, the Communist party further lost ground and prestige. The reason for the decline of communism in Italy is that '•Italian temperament and Communism are incompatible." The decision to revive the Comintern creates a difficult position for the Italian Communists because most Italians hate Communism. At first, in the past the Communists found many opportunities to make friends with the Socialists; but the recent announcement in Moscow that Socialists are the enemies of Communism, made many of the Socialists turn about face. The Communists in Italy expect the failure of the Marshall Plan. They expect Russia to offer plenty of wheat so that more votes Will go for the Com(Please turn to page 223) Current Events Review, Jan. 1948 What has the General Assembly Accomplished m I ts Second Session ? Specific ohjectives: 1. To appreciate the main "accomplishments of the second regular session of the General Assembly. 2. To understand the main features of the second regular session. 3. To ap,preciate the efforts exerted to solve the world's pressing problems. Once a year the General Assembly, one of the .six organs of the United Natioris holds a regular session to discuss the solution to the problems of the world. All the 57 nations are represented in this body. Each nation has one vote. The General Assembly is mainly a political body. It can only examine dangerous situations and make recommendations for the correction of the wrong. Its recommendations, however, are the results of mature debates and serious study. What are the important accomplishments of the General Assembly? What are the main characteristics of the work of the United NaThe second regular session was characterized by a verbal duel or war of words between the chief delegates of the United States and that of Russia. Secretary Marshall bluntly accused Russia for delaying the solution of the peace problems of the world. "The abuse of the right of unanimity," said the Secretary, "has prevented the Security Council from fulfilling its true functions." Russia was blamed for failure to reach agreement on the solution of the guerrilla warfare in Greece and on the solution of the Korean independence problem, for the refusal to accept the majority decision on the control of atomic energy, for the misuse bf the veto power in the Security Council, and for lack of wholehearted cooperation. In return, Andrei Vyshinsky, First Deputy Foreign Minister of Russia, bitterly attacked the United States in a 92-minute speech. Accusations were hurled against the Truman Doctrine, the Marshall Plan, American dollar imtions? How do the- leaders of the world · perialism, and "warmongering." help solve the problems of the world? Main features of the second regular session The first feature of the second regular session was the sharp clash between the Unii.ed States and Russia. As a result of this conflict, unlike the first regular session held in September, 1946, the second regular 70-day session was held in an atmosphere of skepticism. Newspaper correspondents who covered the second regular session were of the opinion that the General Assembly is very slow in soPi!ing the ,peace of the world. World Affairs The members of the United Nations took sides as a result of the opening speeches of Secretary Marshall and Vyshinsky. Most of the members of the United Nations sided with the United States in many issues. Russla was solidly supported by her "satellites." Another feature of the second regular session was the bold decisions taken by the General Assembly. The General Assembly took a strong stand in the deliberation on the Greek Question, the Korean Question, the Veto problem, the partition of Pal~stine, and the proposal for the establishment of the .Little Assembly. * 201 Problems discussed by the General Assembly It took the General Assembly one week to agree on the agenda of the session. During the debates on the agenda, bitter words, accusations, and blunt charges and counter charges were heard. Originally there were 43 items in the provisional agenda. After a week of debate the items increased to 80. The Assembly discussed the following: the Palestine Question, the Veto Question, the Little Assembly, . the Greek Question, the Korean Independence, War Mongering, the trusteeship agreements, Charter Day and United Nations Peace Day, reports of the various agencies of the United Nations, the charter of human rights, relief needs, progressive development of international law, the convention on genocide (mass murder of a race), the principles for the Nurnberg trial, crusade against world prostitution, and the new resolution on the Dutch-Indonesian War. Important accomplishments of the General Assembly The General Assemly took bold decisions in the Greek Question, Korean Question, the establishment of the Little Assembly, Veto Question, Palestine Question, and War Mongering Accusations. 1. The Greek Question.-The Greek Question remained unsettled because Russia had used her veto power to block its solution. For several weeks the Security Council tried to solve the problem. The United States proposed the creation of the Balkan Commission to watch border troubles in Greece. This proposal was vetoed by Russia. The question was submitted for decision to the General Assembly. On October 21, 1947, the General Assembly establlshed the Balkan Watch Commission by a vote of 40 to 6, with 11 abstentions. Russia 202. and her satellites were bitterly defeated. . Russia announced that she would boycott the Commission. 2. The .Korean Question.-Another ex.plosive question between the United States and Russia is the problem of Korean independence. For more than two years the United States and Russia haq failed to arrive at a concrete solution to the Korean problem. The General Assembly finally approved, by a vote of 43 to O, the creation Of a United Nations Korean Independence Commission to supervise the holding of elections in Korea. The members of the Commission are the Philippines, Australia,, 'Canada, China, El Salvador, France, India, Syria, and South Ukraine. Russia anriounced that she would boycott the Commission. 3. Little Assembly-The establishment of the Little Assembly was advocated by Secretary Marshall. Its main PUrPOSe is to sit and take up' dangerous situations while the General Assembly is not in session. The real idea behind this is to bring public opinion on the Security Council when it misuses the veto. Vyshinsky opposed the establishment of the Little Assembly because he said it would by-pass the Security Council. The General Assembly, however approved the-establishment of the Little Assembly by a vote of 41 to 6, with 6 nations abstaining. Russia and her satellites voted against the proposal. Russia announced that she would boycott the Little Assembly. The Little Assembly will discuss international issues in spite of the absence of Russia. 4. Veto Question-The veto power is the most discussed problem of the United Nations. In the December issue of the Current Events Review we gave a complete history of the 24 vetoes used in the Security Council. A rereading of the article will help us understand to what degree the veto was misused and abused in the Security Council. SecreCurrent Events Review, Jan. 1948 tary Marshall announced that the United States is willing to approve the modification of the use of the veto on certain matters, specialiy on matters of applications for memberships. Vyshinsky bitterly attacked any attempt to modify the veto. The General Assembly again boldly approved the resolution recommending that the veto be studied by the Little Assembly. 5. War Mongeriitg-What is "Warmongering"? According to popular usage the word means an act of inciting people to go to war by means of propaganda. Vyshinsky accused the United States, Greece, Turkey and other states of "warmongering." He demanded that the General Assembly should condemn the United States and other countries for making propaganda for the next world war. Vyshinsky's accusation gave rise to counter accusations, and the question was raised: "Who is the warmonger?" After bitter debates, the General Assembl;v defeated the Russian anti-warmongering resolution. The General Assembly passed a resolution by a vote of 66 to 0 condemning all talks that might disrupt the peace of the world. 6. Palestine Question-Palestine is one of the "explosive spots" of the world. For twenty-four years Britain administered Palestine. During this period, 25 international conferences were held, and twelve commissions were created to evolve a method of solving the problem. Both ·the Arabs and Jews claim Palestine. The Jews had sought a homeland for more than 2,000 years. On November 29, 1947, the General Assembly voted 33 to 13, with 10 abstentions to partition Palestine. A fivenation commission was created to take over the British responsibilities in the Holy Land, to ·split Palestine into an Arab and Jewish state, and to prepare Palestine for its eventual independence by October, 1948. The commission is composed of Bolivia, Czechoslovakia, World Affairs Denmark, Panama, and the Philippines. According to the plan approved by the General Assembly, Palestine will be divided into an Arab and Jewish state. The Holy City will be under the supervision of an international commission. The British mandate which began in 1922 will be ended by August 1, 1948, and the British troops will be withdrawn on the same day. Both the Arab and the Jewish state will become independent on October 1, 1948. The decision to partition Palestine was happily greeted by the Jews, but the Arabs rose in revolt because they consider the decision a declaration of war against them. What is the significance of tl're work of the General Assembly? After 70 days of work the General Assembly adjourned on November 29, 1947. It acted on 63 items, but the six problems discussed· above stand out as the most important problems affecting the peace of the world. The decis?ons taken by the General Assembly were bold. In most of these decisions Russia and the West did not reach complete agreement. Russia voted, howeVer, with the United· States on the partitioning oi Palestine. In arriving at· its decisions the General Assembly did what it could do to solve the vexing problems of the world. The decisions,. however, must be carried out. Several questions now stand to be answered: What will be the attitude of Russia towards the carrying out of the decisions of the General Assembly'! Will she allow the Korean Commission to enter her zone of occupation in Korea? Will she help in suppressing the border troubles in northern Greece'! Will she morally abide by whatever decision is arrived at by the Little Assembly? In opening the session of the General Assembly, President Dr. Oswaldo Aranha of Brazil, said: "Ours is not * 203 only a pact among nations. It is here (in the General Assembly) that the world will organize peace or hasten war. The moment is crucial as all are burdened with doubt and disappointment ... The world that is present here can become divided only through lack of unde.rstanding among men." Will the United Nations survive? This is the question uppermost in the minds of many after the second regular session of the General Assembly. The answer to this question is up to the people of the world that organized the United Nations. Since they organized it. to bring about lasting peace, they must do everything to make it work effectively for the peace of the world. Study Helps 1. Why was the second regular session of the General Assembly held in an atmos,phere of skepticism? 2. The General Assembly has been called the 11Town Meeting of the World." Is this statement borne by the results of the second regular session of the General Assembly? Why?' 3. What is meant by bold decision? What made the General Assembly take bold decisions? 4. What made the Russians oppose the discussion of the Balkan Question, Korean Question, veto problem, and the creation of the Little Assembly? Explain. 5. Had there been no General Assembly, the above questions would not have been discussed by the 57 member nations of the United Nations. Do you think that, as shown in its achievements in the second regular session, the General Assembly served its real purpose? 6. The Russians and her satellites were outvoted in most of the issues decided by the General Assembly .. Can you tell us the significance of this ? 204 * Why is Geopolitics • . • (Continued from page 197) References 1. "Geopolitics in World Affairs?" (Army Talk) Report Vol. 8 No. 59 (April 11, 1947) pp. 9-16. 2. "Geopolitics of the Soviet Union,'' '(Army Talk) Report Vol. IV, No. 89 (November 7, 1947) pp. 14-19. B. DonaldsOn, John.-"Power Politics," Contemporary World Politics, edited by Francis James Brown, Charles Hodges, and Joseph Slabey Roucek, pp. 53-73. 4. Poole, C. DeWitt.-'•Balance of Power," Life, Vol. 23, No. 12 (September 22, 194 7) pp. 77-92. 5. "In Russia's Europe," Fortune, Vol. XXXV, No. 2 (February, 1947) pp. 19-81. 7. If Russia refuses to cooperate in the execution of the decisions of the General Assembly on the Balkan Question, Korean Question, and on the establishment of the Little Assembly, do you think that the decisions of the General Assembly will be of no avail? Why? 8. What is the significance of the work of the General Assembly in its last session ? References 1. "General Assembly Convenes," United Nations: Weekly Bulletin, Vol. III, No. 13 (September 23, 1947) pp. 379-381; 385-386. 2. 41 Assembly Concludes General Debate," Vol. III, No. 14 (September 30, 1947 pp. 411-421. 3. "New Balkan Committee Established," Vol. III, No. 18 (October 28, 194 7) pp. 54 7-548. 4. "Behind the U.N .'s Bitter Clashes," World Report, Vol, 3, No. 15 (October 7, 1947) pp. 10-11. Explain. Current Events Review, Jan. 1948 lVhat fa wrong with the United Nations? What are the Weaknesses of the United Nations? Specific objectives: 1. To understand the weaknesses of the United Nations 2. To understand the basis of these weaknesses 3. To appreciate the effort being exerted to correct these weaknesst::s When the second regular session of the General Assembly of the United Nations opened, writers covering the proceedings of the General Assembly expressed doubt on the success of the United Nations. Thirty-four representatives of various newspapers, according to poll conducted by the Newswe<l/c Magazine, expressed skepticism about the success of the United Nations. Radio commentators began debating on what to do to strengthen the United Nations. What are the weaknesses oi the United Nations? What are tl:e causes of these weaknesses? What is being done to correct them? Cloud of p~simism over the United Nations The second regular session of th~ General Assembly gave many writers a chance to express their opinions on the United Nations. Raymond Daniell, veteran newspaper correspondent, expressed the belief that the United Nations is functioning in an uunintende<l atmosphere." Today writers openly ex. press their skepticism on the success o~ the United Nations on account of the various dismal failures of the Security Council. The failures which have brought about an international cloud of pessimism are ( 1) the failure of the World Problem Security Council to solve the Greek guerrilla warfare in northern Greece; (2) the failure of the Security Council to draw up an international plan for the control of atomic energy; (3) the failure of the Security Council to set up an international organization to enforce peace; (4) the failure of the Security Council to solve the Indonesian warfare;· ( 5) the failure of th~ Security Council to hasten the plan for world disarmament; and (6) the failure of the Big Powers to come to a quick solution of the problems presented before the Security Council. A recent poll conducted by Gallup shows that 50% of those who answered the questions on the progress of the United Nations express disappointment in the progress made to date by the United Nations. What are the weaknesses of the United Nations? The comments of outstanding newspapers, magazines, bulletins, radio commentators, speakers in town meetings, and. political leaders on the works of the United Nations clearly point the weaknesses of the UN. What are these? 1. The United Nations is functioning in "unintended atmosphere." 2. The United Nations suffers from want of immediate means to solve explosive political disputes. 3. The United Nations has become powerless because of the misuse of the ''v~to". 4. The United Nations suffers fron.1 mutual distrust or suspicion between two major blocks. * 205 5. The United Nations suffers from indecision for want of proper definition of 14 Sovereignty·" that would apply to contemporary complex international problems. 6. The United Nations has weakened because of the rivalry of ideologies within itself. What is the meaning of "unintended atmosph,ere"? If we examine all the records of the past two years, we shall find one significant fact - that most people have forgotten the main purpose of the United Nations. The founders of the United Nations intended this world organization· to maintain world peace. This aim has been ignored because the United Nations started functioning without taking into consideration how such aim might come in conflict with the treaties to be concluded. Now there are no agreements to guide the policies of the United Nations, because the United Nations was established before peace treaties were even planned. Today the peace treaties With Germany, Austria, and Japan still await ratification. This is t!'ie atmosphere in which the United Nations functions today. The UN is like a referee called upon to referee a basketball game without rules. Does the veto delay peace? The United Nations is seriously confronted by the "veto" problem in the Security Council. In the last N ovemLrr issue of the Current Events Review, the ·history of the 24 vetoes in the Security Council was discussed in detail. Some world leaders believe that the veto could be used to enhance the solution of world problems. But the history of the 24 vetoes shows that most of the vetoes have hampered the smooth funci;i:.ning cf the United Nations. Russ•n, fot in~tance, has vetoed the attempt of tJ1e l:uitPd Nations to create a Balkan V{at~h Commission inte"'lded to prevent tid occm ~ ~nee of conflicts in Northern C reere 206 * }':;:&nee, for mstance, used the veto to p~ n·cnt the formaUon of a Unit-:d :\ahr·m; Commission ic supervise the Security Council's cr.ase fire order iI1 Indorf'E-ia. The m1sus(· of the veto in the .Secttrity Councll 11as obviously made for the Security C.Ji;~1cil a very bad irepreai.-ion on the minds of the thinking per·ple. MajOrity •of th~ political leaden, h.Jwfl er, believe that the veto is a consequt-nce, and not a cause of trouble. The (", neral Assembly in its regular session arproved a resolution recommending that the veto question be studied by the Little Assembly. How is the prestige of the UN alfected by explosive questions? The United Nations at present !aces explosive questions which have divided the world into two hostile ideological camps. . These questions threaten Wl)r]d peace. The guerrilla warfare in no1·thern Greece for example, is a threa~ to world peace. Russia sees in the discussion of the Greek question the determination of the democracies to make Greece a bastion of democracy in Southern Europe. The United States likewise, fears that Russia is threatening the p Jlitical integrity of Greece. Russia sees in the Trumah Doctrine an Am~rican design to extend her influence to Southern Europe, and the United States views the Greek guerrilla warfare as a Communist-inspired plan to overthrow th~ legitimate government of Greece in order to bring Greece within the Iron Curtain. World hunger is also a threat to world peace. There is actual h"ung;:i1· in Europe. Russia ·refuses to cooperate with the Marshall Plan because she view.g the plan as ~ design to extend American imperialism to Western Europe. The United States views the refusal of 9 European countries to cooperate with the Marshall Plan as the Communists' design to prevent world peace. Current Events Review, Jan. 1948 How does distrust affect the prestige oft~ UN? The United Nations Charter states that the members should develop friendly relations among nations based on respect for the principles of equal rights and self-determination of peoples. But there exists mutual distrust between the democracies on one side and the Communists on the other. This mutual distrust decreases the prestige of the United Nations, because it prevents the members of the United Nations to work harmoniously. Why was. the Comintern or Third International revived by Russia? Its main purpose is to wreck American imperialism. Why was the Marshall Plan announCed? It was announced to help Europe recover econo .. mically so that the democratic institutions of the aided countries may flourish. The United States requested Russia to help make clean and free the elections in Poland. Russia refused to cooperate. The elections in Poland were rigged, and so were the elections in Hungary were held. The United States prOtested. The United States boldly stated that it is the right of oppositionists to enjoy free speech to convince people to select their representatives freely. The protest was ignored. How does sovereignty affect the prestige of the UN? The United Nations is an organiza,... tion of sovereign nations which have agreed to join their efforts to maintain international peace. Sovereignty implies freedom from external control. If the members of the United Nations do not surrender a. part of their sovereign rights, it would be impossible to solve completely the peace problems of the world. In 1946 Russia bitterly opposed the idea of international inspection of all countries as a means of controlling the misuse of the atomic energy. Sovereignty, for the Russians, is sacred. Later, World Problem however, in 1947, Russia agreed to a kind of international inspection. The United Nations Charter states that it is the aim of the members to achieve international cooperation in solving the economic, social, and cultural and humanitarian problems of the world. Russia has refused to join some international organizations which were established tO solve the common problems of the world. She has refused to join the UNESCO (United Nations Scientific and Cultural Organization) and the ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organization). Russia's reason is that these organizations infringe on her so'Vereign rights. For the same reason, Russia opposes any modification of the veto power. She fears that her sovereign rights might be endangered. How does rivalry of ideologies affect the prestige of the UJY? The Charter of the United Nations states that the actions of nations must be coordinated and harmonized in the attainment of common ends. But the differences between Russia and the United States, continue to hamper a common action in the solution of the problems of the world. The pressure of Soviet-American rivalry, according to Michael Straight in his article Fixing the Blame for the Cold War, is preventing the growtb of freedom and democracy in dependent and undemocratic countries. The failure of the Big Powers to resolve their differences create among the nations skepticism on the success of the United Nations. ls there a need for the United Nations? What would have happened had there been no United N·ations since October 23, 1945? Iran would have been absorbed by Russia in 1945. Greece would have fallen under the Russian orbit. *207 Korea would have been completely Communized. Turkey would have fallen under Russian influence. There would have been, too, a terrific race for atomic weapon, and the tension between the haves (those nations who have the secret or know-how of the atomic bomb) and the havenots (those who do not have the know-how of the atomic bomb) would have increased. And then secret alliances would have been created. History shows that secret alliances are causes of wars. It is true that the United Nations has certain weaknesses. But the General Assembly in its second regular session took steps to overcome some of these weaknesses. .The General Assembly boldly created the Balkan Wateh Commission and the Little Assembly. The Little Assembly was created to discuss throughout the year the peace problems of the world. The General Assembly also created a Commission to hasten the independence of Korea. Also, the question of the veto, which has greatly handicapped the functioning of the UN, is now under study. lnspite of all these weaknesses, the need for the UN is more than apparent. It is aptly expressed in the following words of a noted editor: "For the U. N., with all its fa.Wits, ls the best hope man yet devised to tame the tiger in our hearts." If man loses his second great chance to solve the peace problems of the world through a world organization, another war - far more terrible and far more destructive will surely come. That may be the end of civilization. Exercises to Develop Thinking 1. Russia blames the United States for the failure of the United Nations. Tass, the Russian news agency stated: "Everything bears witness to the fact that .American policy with regard to the United Nations more and more is pointing to two alternatives-either unconditional subjugation of the United Nations to the line of the White House 208 * or direct liquidation of the organiza-tion." Is this accusation true? Why? 2. A special pamphlet prepared under the direction of the United States Department, charges that Russia is guilty of peace obstructionism. Is this accusation just? Why? 3. Can you suggest ways of strengthening the United Nations? Explain. 4. Do you think it would be better to abolish the veto in the Security Council? Why? 5. A foreign correspondent of the New York Times wrote that a bigpower harmony jg essential to the success of the UN. Do you agree with him in this statement? Why? 6. "It is hoped," wrote a radio commentator, "that the UN may be kept in being until world conditions are more favorable for its success." Do you agree with this statement? Why? References 1. Gervasi, Frank.-"What is Wrong with the U. N.?" Collier's, Vol. 120. No. 17 (October 25, 1947), pp. 16, 69, 73. 2. "How Can We Make the United Nations Work," Town Meeting, Vol. 13, No. 20 (September 9, 1947) pp. 3-23.· 3. Straight, Michael. - "Fixing the Blame for the Cold War," New Republic, Vol. 117, No. 11 (September 15, 1947) pp. 10-12. Subscribe to ATING WIKA a monthly magazine in the National Language for grade-school children. (Appmved by the Government fo1· general reading fo1· both public and private elementary schools.) One year ........... P7.50 One semester . . . . . . . 4.00 533 P. Paterno, Quiapo, Manila Current Events Review, Jan. 1948 Opinions on world problems What is the Future of the United Nations? (This section on opinions on current international problems is presented every month to provide materials for class discussion in current events. The opinions are not necessarily those of the Current Events Review). The second regular session of the General Assembly of the United Nations has ju8t ended. The session was held in an atmos.phere of pessimism mainly because of the conflicts between the United States and Russia. Various articles, editorials, speeches, and records of open forums have been published. Many of these materials give us food for thought. Some of them suggest ways of strengthening the United Nations. Others express skepticism. What are some of these opinions? How can the UN strengthen itself? Dr. Albert Einstein, noted physicist and scientist, wrote an open letter "To the General Assembly of the United Nations," in the popular magazine United Nations World. · He analyzed the reasons why the United Nations cannot be blamed for ·an its failures. He said that no international organization can be stronger than the constitutional powers given to it. Dr. Einstein suggests that ". . . the authority of the General Assembly must be increased so ~hat the Security Council as well as all other bodies of the UN will be subordinated to it. As long as there is a. conflict of authority between the Assembly and the Security Council, the effectiveness of the whole institution will remain necessarily impaired." World Affairs Study Helps l. Do you agree with Dr. Einstein that as lo~g as there is a conflict between the General Assembly and the Security Council there could be no effectiveness in the UN ? Why ? 2. "The Assembly," wrote Dr. Einstein, "must not delegate its powers to the Security Council." Do you agree with him ? Read again the powers of the Security Council before you give your answer. Is the UN about to collapse? This is the question asked by Dewitt Mackenzie, noted foreign columnist. "The way it looks the UN is being kept largely because of stark fear among lhember nations of what would happen if the organization colla,psed. The results of a breakdown are too terrible to contemplate. Thus we find in UN circles the feeling that the organization must be maintained at all hazards." Study Helps 1. Do you agree in opinion with the writer that the UN must be maintained at all cost ? Why? 2. There is a great move to split Europe into two worlds. Do you think it is time that the UN be disbanded? Why? Should the UN be reconstituted? Suggestions have been given to reconstitute the United Nations. "It is now generally realized," wrote Felix Morley in Human Events, "that Russia * 209 has exercised the veto power eleven times (in fact 22 times) - an average of once every seven weeks - during the 18 months the Security Council has been in full operation. And the frequent disillusionment is leading to an uneasy feeling, apparent in many quirters, 'that something should be done' about it. Suggestions that the United Nations should be reconstituted without Russia are frequent." Study Helps 1. Do you think Russia would withdraw from the UN? Why? 2. Is it possible to have a UN without Russia ? Why?· Do we expect too much from the United Nations overnight? Two world wars have already been fought. The world desires peace. The world has its second chance to learn the lessons of global war. President Truman in an address delivered at Princeton University said that many people expect too much from the United Nations overnight. "True, the United Nations has not gained either the moral influence or political strength we hoped for it at San Francisco. But if one takes a longer view back over history and from the vantage point of historical persj>ective, considers the sweeping transformations in habits and institutions required to establish the reign of law among nations, progress to date seems more encouraging. From the standpoint of logic, world government and a durable peace are so desirable and. reasonable that many assume that they would be established overnight for the sinful ambitions of statesmen." Study Helps 1. Why should we not expect too much from the United Nations in a short time? 210* 2. If all men were sincere in promoting peace, much could be done by the United Nations. Do you believe this statement? Why? How will the United Nations work successfully? How Will the United Nations work successfully? This was the question asked by many people in November, 1947. One answer came from Pearl S. Buck, famous novelist and Nobel Prize Win· ner. Jn . an article entitled "Listen to the People, United Nations!" she said: "I can only say, the UN is full of potential good for the future of the world. It is good enough to live, to grow, to become what we need, a talking place for many points of view, a place to seek justice and find it, a means of peace. Yes, I believe it can be made into an international instrument 'for permanent peace. But this will come to pass only if the peoples insist upon it and-compel th~ir government to use UN as it can and should be used.'' Study Helps 1. What is the suggestion given by Pearl S. Buck? 2. Can you cite an example of how the UN is used for the promotion of selfish motives instead of for world peace? Can you cite an instance of how the UN is used to solve world problems? What factor may bring about the collapse of the UN? The abuse of the right of unanimity is the greatest obstruction to the smooth functioning of the United Nations. In his speech before the General Assembly, Secretary of State George C. Marshall emphasized this single factor may bring about the end of the United Nations. He said: "The large powers (Please turn to page 228) Current Events Review, Jan. 1948 A new nation is born How has Burma Succeeded in Her Struggles for Freedom? Specific qbjectives: 1. To appreciate the struggle of the Burmese for freedom 2. To evaluate the role of Burmese leaders in the Burmese struggle for freedom 3. To know the significance of the Burmese freedom "The single great event in Asia," wrote Robert Payne in his latest book The Revolt of Asia, "is the struggle of the peoples of the East for freedom." The Philippines is now a republic. In~ donesia's freedom is a certainty. The Dominion of India and Dominion of Pakistan have already been established. At present we are going to discuss how Burma succeeded in gaining pro-' mise for freedom. Burma has become independent on January 6, l!MS. What were the v~rious stages in Burma's struggle for freedom? What were the contributions of Burmese leaders in their fight for freedom? What is the significance of Burma's freedom? Who are the Burmese? Burma is called the "Land of Images." The word Burma is de:fived from the Chinese word "Mein." Burma is in South East Asia. It is bounded on the north by Tibet and China, on the east by China and Siam, and on the south by the Bay of Bengal and the provinces of Bengal and Assam in the Dominion of Pakistan. The area of Burma is 261,610 square miles, more than twice the area of the Philippines. The estimated population in 1931 was 14,667,146. The Burmese are darker in complexion than the Chinese. They are physForeign Affairs ically vigo'rous. Their delightful qualities are spontaneity, good manners, and buoyancy. The Burmese of the laboring class are stocky. They are capable of hard work. They seldom amass great fortunes because their immediate interest is in the pleasures of life. The Burmese of the upper class have delightful manners and unfailing courtesy. The average Burmese take pride in their race. The Burmese speak 126 native languages and dialects. Burmese history before the British annexation The main source of Burmese culture was India. Indian merchant adventurers were the first to come to Burma. These merchants did not simply trade; they established commercial colonies in Burma. These colonies developed into commercial kingdoms, such as Prome, Thaton, Pegu, and several others. Before 1044 A.D., Burma was divided into two divisions: southern Burma and northern Burma. Civil wars pften oe· curred between states. In 1044 A.D. Northern Burma was unified by An·awrata, the ruler of Pegu in northern Burma. Later Anawrata invaded southern Burm.a and united the conquered region with northern Burma. Arakan and Thaton were added. to his kingdoms. He made Pagan a great royal city. Pagan declined in power and strength. And then in 1287 it fell into the hands of Kublai Khan, the Mongol emperor. Burma was again divided into several states under the· influence of the Shans. The capitals of these three divisions were Ava, Toungoo, and Pegu or Mar* 211 taban. These states often fought among themselves. The history of Burma from the 14th to the 16th century is characterized by struggles between Pegu and Ava. Ava. reached the height of her power in the early part of the 15th century. It declined in the middle of the same century. Pegu enjoyed a period of peace and prosperity as a result of the decline of Ava. Towigoo became powerful under the rule of Minkyinyo (1486"1531). Later it became the premier state in Burma. Tabin Shweti, son of Minkyinyo, seized Pegu and Prorne. The people recognized him as the King of Burma. Tabin Shweti was assassi.nated in 1550, and Burma was ruled by Bayinnaung (Buyin Naung). Bayinnaung is known as the Napoleon of Burma. He extended the kingdom of Burma to Manipur and Yunan on the north and to the Mekong, Chiengmai and Ayuthia on the east. The death of Bayinnaung was followed by one hundred years of disorder and- chaos. During this period Burma came in contact with the west through the merchants of France, England, Holland, and Portugal. How did Burma fall in the hands of the British? A great Burmese who exerted much effort to unite Burma was Alaungpaya. From 1752 to 1769 he unceasingly worked for the unification of Burma. He became a national hero, and he founded the last dynasty of kings that ended in 1885 A. D. After his death, Burma was successively ruled by the sons of Alaungpaya. Under the able leadership of Bodawpaya (1782-1819) Burma became a great empire. Before Burma fell into the hands of the British, three wars were successively fought. In 1824 the Burmese and the English fought on account of the refusal 212 * of the British to pay toll on passing the Naaf river on the Bengal-Burma frontier. Burma, was defeated. By the terms of the treaty Burma agreed to accept a British Resident in Ava, to give up her claims on Assam, Cachar, and Manipur, to cede Arakan and Tenasserim and to conclude a commercial treaty with Britain. The second Anglo-Burmese War took place in 1852. Burma wa.s again defeated. Britain annexed Pegu, the only remaining maritime 1Jrovince of Burma. The third Anglo-Burmese war took place in 1885. The British won and decided to take over the whole Burma. Theebaw, then ruler of Burma, was taken prisoner and exiled on November 28, 1885. Burmese fight for separation from India The Russo-Japanese War of 19041905 partly inspired the peoples of the Far East to demand for their freedom. The victory of Japan over Russia convinced· the subject peoples of the Orient that they are entitled to free· dom. The Burmese, however, with exception of a few groups, remained loyal to the British Empire during World War I. After the end of World War I, the Burmese leaders demanded for equality of treatment with other provinces of India. The Burmese leaders headed by Maung Pu succeeded in their plea. Burma acquired a new status. Burma was made a full province of India instead of a subprovince. The Burmese continued their struggles for freedom. They did not like to remain under India. A movement was launched demanding separation from India. Under the provisions of the Government of India Act of 1919 Bur· ma was a part of India. When the Simons Commi&Sion was making a study of the solution to the Indian question, the Burmese nationalists advocated the separation of Burma from India. A Current Events Review, Jan. 1948 Round Table Conference was held in London from November 12, 1930, to January 19, 1931. The Burmese delegates to the Conference were U Ang, Thin, U Ba Pe, and U Ohn Ghine. A separate Burma Conference was held from November 17 to December 24, 1932, to discuss the constitutional reforms for Burma. The British government decided to hold an election in Burma to find out the views of the Burmese on the separation proposal. The election held in 1932 returned the majority of candidates who opposed separation. The question Of separatiQll was taken up by the Burmese Legislative Council in June, 1933. There was a general feeling that all the members favored separation. The British government: however, made a parliamentary inquiry. It finally decided to place Burma under the British crown. By the Government of India Act of 1935, Burma was separated from India. The new government of Burma was inaugurated in 1937. It consisted of A Council of Ministers chosen by the Governor from the Legislature and a Legislature consisting of a Senate and a House of Representatives. There were 36 members in the Senate. One-half of these members were chosen by the Governor and the other half were chosen by the House of Representatives. The members of the House of Representatives were elected by the people. Characteristics of Burmes~ nationalism in World War 11 Burmese nationalism came in conflict with a number Of British policies. The Burmese opposed the British attempt to monopolize oil, river and ocean shipping, timber, mining and riCe-exporting industries and also the British reservation of certain offices in the Government for British subjects. Burmese nationalism took the form of jingoistic movement known as 14 Thakin." "Thakin'' means "master". The word was adopted by university students who Foreign Affairs went to the extreme demanding the ousting of aU foreigners in Burn)a. Burmese nationalism during World War II, nevertheless, lacked unity. There was no complete understanding among Burmese nationalists. Both the PanAsiatics and anti-Westerners hated the British and aU Europeans, but these two factions refused to collaborate towards their common end. There wa-s disagreement even 'within the same faction. The extreme nationalists wanted the expulsion even of Chinese, Indian and Mos· lem immigrants in Burma. In 1939 Dr. Ba Maw became unpopular with the nationalist party called Byochit because he was suspected of having ~ design to make Burma a dicta~ torship. During the World War II he demanded for a dominion status in exchange for a cooperation in the defeil.se of Burma. Political intrigues forced him to resign. He formed the Burma Freedom Bloc and demanded for independence. He was arrested and imprisoned for seditious act. U Saw became "Premier in 1940. He took active interest in the Burmaniza· tion of the schools, defense forces, and other government services. He adopted the use of Burmese as the medium of instruction in the University of Rangoon. He gave vigorous su,pport to all nationalistic movements. In August, 1941, he went to England and demanded for self-government. The demand was turned down by Prime Minister Churchill. Burma's final struggle for freedom The Ja.panese occupied Burma in 1942. Most of the ultra-nationalists cooperated with the Japanese. Dr. Ba Maw was released from prison. He was asked to form a ministry. The J apan~se granted Burma a "puppet" independence on August 1, 1943, to secure fullhearted cooperation from the Burmese in the prosecution of the war A sepa• 213 rate government, however was set up by the Progressive nationalists at Simla, India, under the leadership of Sir Paw Tun. During the fatter part of World War II, the Anti-Fascist Peoples Freedom League under U Aung San cooperated with the Allies in the Burma theater of operation. The Burmese expected during World War II that the British would give them independence after the war. In 1944 a Blue Print for Burma was presented in Parliament. It provided that direct rule would first be introduced into Burma. After this period a Dominion Status would be granted. The plan was discussed and debated. Nothing came out of It. In May, 1945, the British government issued a White Paper. It provided among other things ( 1) the direct rule by the Governor of Burma until December, 1948, (2) the restoration of partial self-government enjoyed by the Burmese before the outbreak of World War 'II; and ( 3) the drafting of a constitution for submission to the British Parliament. The Burmese nationalists demanded for immediate independence. On November 12, 1945, the Working Committee of the AFPFL demanded that the British government announce not later than January 31, 1947, that it would grant Burma independence within a year. And if the British would not meet this demand, the representatives of the AFPFL in the Council would resign. Tensions increased in Burma. The AFPFL campaigned for complete independence. In the meantime the activities of the Communists endangered internal troubles. The British government finally decided to discuss the demand of the AFPFL. And then, on December 20, 1946, Prime Minister Attlee made a momentous announcement. He said that Burma would be granted Commonwealth status or independence, whichever she preferred. The British government called a conference in London in January, 1947, to discuss the Burmese freedom. The Bur214. mese delegation was headed by U Aung San. It was agreed that a Constitutent Assembly should be held in April, 1947, to wri.te Burma's constitution and to decide between dominion status and complete separation from Britain. The Constituent Assembly decided on complete independence. On July 19, 1947, the world was shocked by news from Burma. U A ung San and seven other Ministers holding session in Rangoon were assassinated. One possible reason for the assassination of the man who Jed the fight for Burmese freedom is that ·u Aung SJin had wavered in his desire for Burmese independence. On October 17, 1947, a solemn occasion took place at No. 10 Downing Street where Prime Minister Clement Attlee and Premier Thakin Nu of Bur-ma signed the Anglo-Burmese Treaty providing for the freedom of Burma. The government bill on the independence of Burma was approved by the House of Commons on November 5, 1947, by a decisive vote of 288 to 114. The Independence of the Republic of the Union of Burma was set on January 6, 1948. Exercises to Develop Thinking 1. Who are the Burmese? 2. Explain why there were frequent civil wars among the Burmese. 3. Do you think the British really intended to acquire Burma? 4. Why did the Russo-Japanese War inspire the people of the Orient to fight for freedom? 5. Can you explain why Burmese nationalism is different from that of other nations? 6. Compare Burmese nationalism and Filipino nationalism. (Please turn to page 224) Current Events Review, Jan. 1948 The Philippines and the World-The Philippines and the United Natiom The last session of the· General Assembly gave increased importance to the Philippines. The Philippines was made a member of the Korean Commission to S\,\pervise the Korean election and also of the Palestine Commission to carry out the partitioning of Palestine as decided by the United Nations. And to make the position of the Philippine delegate to the United Nations equal to his task, last December President Roxas signed an executive order raising the status of Brigadier General Carlos P. Romulo to the category of an ambassador and plaCing all activities involving the United Nations under the jurisdiction of Ambassador Romulo. The Philippines recently became alsd a member of the United Nations Trusteeship Council, one of the six organs of the Unite! Nations. The other new member of the Trusteeship Council is Costa Rica. Secretary Emilio Abello was also elected one of the vice-chairmen of the ITO (International Trade Organization), a specialized agency of the United Nations. The ITO held its conference in Havana to discuss the charter on trade agreements among nations. The Philippine delegation to UNESCO in Mexico displayed admirable cooperation in the discussion of world social problems. The Philippines vigorously objected to a Polish resolution making racial discrimination a crime. The Philippine delegation received from the President of UNESCO a letter offering scholarships to several fields. National Affairs Accomplishments of the ECAFE The sec6nd session of the ECAFE (Economic Commission for Asia and the Far East) which met from November 24 to December 6, 1947, in Baguio made important accomplishments. The session was attended by delegates from. all nations. What were the important resolutions approved by the ECAFE? (1) The ECAFE approved a resolution recommending that the FAO (Food Agricultural Organization) adopt a food program for Asia and the Far East, (2) It reached agreement on the exchange of visits among governments of member and associate member countries in Asia and the Far East. (3) It passed a resolution recommending a mutual exchange of advice to be given in advance on proposed inquiries and investigations between the secretariat of the ;ECAFE and the specialized agencies of the United Nations. (4) It created a working party to prepare reports on existing plans for the industrial development of each country and to formulate proposals for the consideration of the ECAFE. (6) It decided to make a compilation of statistics and economic documents. (6) It decided to establish a working section for trade promotion. (7) It passed a resolution asking producing countries to bring down the prices of cereals for exports. (8) It established a bureau of flood control. (9) It passed a resolution recommending the holding of a technical conference on timber. (10) It passed a resolution recommending the study of the needs of nations for technical assistance and technical training. Most observers believe that the ECAFE was a success. Three most impor* 215 tant achievements of the ECAFE are (1) the two-year food program that would enable all countries of Asia to supply their peoples with the essential needs for existence, (2) the laying of the groundwork for the increase of trade between the countries of Asia and the Far East and the rest of the world, and (3) the laying of a master plan for the industrial development· of the Far East. Washington pupils send books to Philippines Eighth grade students of the Holton Arms School, a private school for girls, collected more than 160 assorted books to be donated to the library of Mayon High School iii Ligao, Albay, Philippines. The project Was started by May Jones upon receiving a letter from an official of Mayon High School telling how the Japanese had used the library books of the Mayon High School for fuel. Services of the VSIS to the Philippines In an address delivered before the Manila Rotary Club, James L. Meader, Public Affairs Officer of the USIS, enumerated the services of the United States Information Service in the Phil~ppines. According to Meader the mission of the USIS in the Philippines is to construct highways of understanding bet\\Teen the American and Filipino people and to build bridges of friendly intercourse leading to a more complete knowledge and more genuine appreciation of each other's national culture. To accomplish this two-fold mission, the USIS is making use of five different agencies. First, the library. The USIS has established 3 libraries located in Manila, Cebu, and Iloilo. These libraries have a total of .11,000 books, which are used by nearly 30,000 people a 216 * month. Thousands of magazines, bulletins and government documents are also consulted by researchers. The USIS has also loaned 30,000 books on a long-term basis to schools, colleges, and public libraries. The National Library has been supplied with enough books to start a dozen provincial libraries. Second, the news program. This program is intended to acquaint news services, magazines, newspa.pers, radio stations, schools, and professional groups with current news materials on government, politics, science, engineering, medicine, law and other fields of human endeavor. Third, the motion picture program, The USIS renders a film loan service for various civic organizations. Fourth, the radio program. Through this program the radio listeners in the Far East are given a true and balanced picture of American life. Fifth, the exchange of persons program. This program is intend~d to act as a medium through which the assistance of outstanding teachers, scientists, and researchers of America may extend their help to the Philippines. At present the USIS places its facilities and services at the disposal of all Fil\pinos proceeding to the United States on general cultural missions and of all Americans visiting the Philippines for similar reason. Utility bonds to be floated in the Philippines A report was recently made by the New York Times that public utility bonds will be floated in the Philippines by the Rehabilitation Finance Corporation to capitalize one-fourth of the government's partnership enterprise with the Westinghouse Electric Corporation for the establishment and operation of an electrical manu{.acturing plant in Manila. The bonds, it has been announced by the Philip,pine Consulate General in New York, will bear an in(Please turn to page 224) Current Events Review, Jan. 1948 Significant World UNITED STATES America launches offensive The United States has approved the interim aid bill to France, Austria, Italy and China. The approval of the interim bill was accomplished after stormy debates in both the House of Representatives and the Senate. The original Senate bill authorized the sum of $530)QOO,OOO as asked by President Truman. Several changes, however, were introduced into the original bill. What is the significance of the news? The approval of the measure has two significances. First, the countries to receive aid will be temporarily saved from an economic collapse. This is very significant because the econon1ic collapse of these countries would greatly strengthen communism in these countri'es, and it would mean the death of democracy. Italy has already run out of dollars. France is scraping the bottom for dollars. Strikes and terrorism in both countries are becoming more and more serious, and there is no doubt that these strikes are Soviet-inspired. Second·, the aid shows that the .American people are still guided by a bipartisan foreign policy. The Washington Post said that by its action, the United States shows that it believe<; in world freedom to the extent Of investing vast sums of money in it. P.ALESTINE A challenge to the United Nations The decision of the General Assembly to partition Palestine has won the International News News_ Roundup praise of many periodicals in the United States and in many other countries. This decision has been called the General Assembly's most "historic achievement" to date. This plan was adopted because there was no alternative. It was the last resort. Palestine had to be partitioned for the peace of the world. What is the significance of the news? The decision, although weak, is laudable. Why? For, as the New York Times says, the Arabs would not be satisfied with the territories allotted them, but .it is a decision of the United Nations done after mature deliberation. "Tl\e partition plan" wrote the New York Herald-Tribune, "represents only very rough justice at best, but there are not infrequently moments in the affairs of men and peoples when some firm answer, however imperfect or even perilous it may be, is better than none. The issue now is not what any individual, group or nation thinks about it, but what the UN assembly by more than two-thirds vote has decided. From here out, these Arabs and those Jewish extremists who resort to violence in Palestine will be defying international authority, and such will outlaw themselves." FRANCE A momentous decision France, one of the bastions of demot:racy in Western Europe, has taken a bold decision in solving the most difficult pres~nt-day problem - the strikes. A bill banning strikes was introduced bY Robert Schuman, and was passed by the Council of the Republic • 217 by a vote of 217 against 82. It was passed against a desperate Communist opposition. What is the significance of the news? The aim of Premier Robert Schuman in presenting the bill is to strengthen the authority of the government in dealing with the economic problems of France. The enactment of the antistrike law gives the government a powerful weapon in dealing with Communist-sponsored labor strikes. For more than One month the Communists were trying hard to win power through a 2,000,000-man strike. These Communist..sponsored strikes are a part of the Communist scheme to plunge France into turmoil before effective United States aid becomes a reality. The step taken by the government nipped in the bud the Communist attempt to seize the legitimate powers of the French government. The situation in France, h6wever, still remains tense. Nevertheless, with such a law to protect France in the meanwhile, France may tide over until the Marshall aid program comes into operation. ITALY Government remains firm and determined The Italian government continues to maintain its fight against Communism. Like France, Italy in the early part of December, 1947, was threatened by very serious strikes. The Commwtist-led General Labor Confederation challenged the government by opposing certain police measures taken by the government to maintain peace and order in Rome. Through peaceful efforts, however, the government succeeded in removing the threats. What is the significance of the news? What were the main causes of the strikes? The causes were in general 218 * economic - demand for employment and demand· for higher wages. The strikes in Italy were inspired by dissident elements. 0These dissidents work through labor organizations to seize power. The Italian government, however, succeeded in meeting the challenge through the broadening of the memberships of the Cabinet. Premier Alcide de Gasperi tactfully included in his Cabinet members of the moderate Labor Socialists and the Republicans so that he could receive great support in the Constituent Assembly. Gasperi's move worked. The Italian government has stood equal to the great task of solving its grave economic problems. It has gained its balance and is determined to work out its problems in a democratic way. GERMANY A new hope for speedy economic revival An agreement was reached in the last conference of the Council of Foreign Ministers at London to hike ~e limit of the German steel production capacity from 7,500,000 to 11,500,000 tons per year. The decision was reached after French Foreign Minister Georges Bidault had waived his o;pposition. For more than a year the French Minister had opposed any increase in the steel production of Germany for fear of the revival of German might. What is the significance of the news? The agreement to increase German steel production is significant to Germany. American and British experts argue that any increase in the German steel production would redound to the_ benefits of both the occupying powers and Germany. The increase would en-able Germany to pay the cost of occupation and •would help develop her peacetime steel industry. But above all these, the increase of German steel proCurrent Events Review, Jan. 1948 duction would indirectly bring about the economic recovery of Europe. Th'! question that now remains is: What form of control should be exercised to prevent Germany from regaining her industrial might? BRITAIN Britain shows the lead Recent news released by the headquarters of the IRO (International Refugee Organization) shows that Britain has taken the lead in the admission of DP's (Displaced Persons). Figures show that about 30;000 DP's.have already been absorbed by Britain. The British government expects to admit about 100,000 within the next few months. What is the significance of the news? The problem of the Displaced Persons (those who are willing to return to their country but could not find means to do so for many reasons) is one of the serious problems of the world. During the last war thousands of refugees were forced to move to other regions. At the end of the war they found it impossible to return to their respective countries because of the radical changes in the circuinstances in their homelands. The IRO has been charged to take care of these refugees. The lead taken by Britain is very significant. She has taken the lead in applying the ideas outlined in the IRO project. Her experiment shows that the problem of adjustment is not so difficult as expected. There is remarkably a small m.tmber of misfits among the DP's, and there has been a marked decline in the opposition of trade unions to the admission of the displaced persons. Public debates on the desirability of admitting the DP's are also cooling off. International News INDIA Troubles begin to become serious India is again on the spotlight of international news. The troubles in India's three ;provinces - Kashmir, Juragadh, and Hyderabad - begin to have internatiorlal complications. Of the three, Kashmir has the most serious troubles. Kashmir is near the NorthWest Frontier Province. It is ruled by a Hindu. The Moslems in Kashmir are against the union with the Dominion of India. For this reason the Pakistan Moslems invaded Kashmir from the North-West Frontier Province. The invaders now threaten to capture the capital. India troops, however, are bitterly defending Kashmir. What is the significance of the news? The Kashmir revolt is the latest serious outbreak in the struggles between the Moslems and -the Hindus since the creation of the Dominion of lQ.dia and the :Dominion of Pakistp.n. on August 14, 1947. The main cause of the revolt was the refusal of the Moslem population of Kashmir to unite with the Dominion of India. These recent troubles in Kashmir are significant because they occur near the borders of Russia, China, and Afghanistan. If such disturbances continue Communist infiltration may easily be effected and when that comes the peace of India will be at stake. CHINA New experiences for a troubled nation The end of 1947, known as the Year of Decision, brought to troubled China two new experiences which would form historical landmarks in her history. China's first new experience was the national election, the first in her history. According to the Nanking reports, * 219 some 170 million people went to the, polls to elect 3,044 members of the National Assembly. The people voted for three days - November 21, 22, and 23. The elected members would elect the new President of China. Women .delegates to the National Assembly were voted on November 21. Delegates representing various ,professions - teaching, law, medicine, etc., - were voted on November 22. On November 23, geographical delegates were named. Overseas elections were discontinued in most cases because of difficulties. fhe second national experience of China was the promulgation of a new constituti~n on December 25, 1947. What is the significance of the news? The promulgation of the constitution and the holding of the national election are two I'andmarks in the contempora1·y history of China. After 25 years of political "tutelage," following the plan conceived by the late Dr. Sun Yat Sen, uFather of the Chinese Republic," the common' peopl~ of China got their first democratic break. Under the new constitution the common man would enjoy a specific number of civil rights and individual liberties. The constitution provides for equitable distribution of land, protection and limitation of private property, management of public utilities by the government, allocation for a definite ,percentage of the national budget for educational, scientific and cultural purposes,. adoption of a national insurance system, protection of women and child labor, and employment for all .able-bodied persons. The holding of the national election is very significant because it is the first national experience of China as a democracy. What is important, wrote a veteran foreign correspondent, is not the outcome of the election but "the actual holding of a national election." Jn the last election more than 500,000 scribes 220 * were employed to help uwrite the names of voters" who could not read nor write. CEYLON Another nation is born One more Asia#c nation has become independent - Ceylon. After 25 years of hard political struggle Ceylon finally succeeded in securing from Britain the status of· a Dominion. The success of Ceylon on the one hand am! the policy oi. Britain on the other is a very unique record in the history of colonialism. What is the significance of the news? In its editorial the Baltimore Sun says: "Equally well, Ceylon's new status expresses the latest and profoundly changed era of Asia's history. Completely self-ruled and externally independent except for formal ties with Britain, Ceylon has merely attained what Burma and India have Deen granted and Indo-China and Indonesia are fighting for." LATIN AMERICA Air progre,ss in Chile, Ecuador, and Cuba Three Latin American countries are intensively and extensively promoting their aviation facilities and navigation. Chile has assembled a treasure house of aeronautical relics. The museum contains exhibits depicting the development of Chilean aviation since its beginnings. The main reason for this project is to make Chileans air-minded. The government of Ecuador has recently authorized the signing of a contract ;,.ith the Skyways Inte~national Trading and Transport Company and the Latin American Airways, InC. The t)VO companies are authorized to make tl-ips through Ecu,ador. Under the terms of the contract, both companies must ( 1) employ Ecuadorean co-pilots and (2) (Please turn to page 222.) Current Events Review, Jan. 1948 Science Marches On-Rain-making simplified It has been recently discovered that rain may be produced by sprinkling the clouds with water. This new method, announced recently as entirely feasible by Dr. Irving Langmuir of the General Electric Research Laboratory, vastly simplifies the year-old method of dryice seeding in so-called supercooled clouds-clouds which approach the freezing point. With the new system, cumulus clouds in the tropics and in many sections of the temperate zones may be forced to rain at will with the use of water and plane. Saran Vinylide chloride, a new plastic fiber made up of petroleum and cheap chlorine gas, is stronger and less ex.pensive than nvlon. This new fiber sheds moisture a~d does not flame, rot, or mildew, is tough and less expensive than nylon. Named Sara11, this new synthetic fiber is expected to become the most important addition to the synthetic textile fib~r family, not excepting nylon. The Dow Chemical Company started producing Saran as material for making window screens, upholstery in busses and trolleys, and women's handbags and hats. But beginning this year, 1948, Saran will be available in extremely fine hair-like soft fabrics. Paper "Linens" Bed sheets, bath mats, washable towels, and wrappers· for wet objects may be commercially made out of water-proof paper. Developed during the war by Modern Science the United States National Bureau of Standards for making maps durable under all weather conditions, the paper has unusual strength, achieved simply by adding resin as bonding agent to the ordinary wood.pulp paper. Study on correct brushing The College of Dentistry of the University of Illinois will soon launch a comprehensive study of the effects of correct b:rushing of the teeth. More than 2,000 school children in the sixth ~nd seventh grades will be made the subject of a two-year study. The children will, according to instructions, brush their teeth each morning and afternoon at school and at home after the evening meal. The results are exp~cted to compare the effects <Jf dentifrices and to demonstrate the superiority of scientific brushing to haphazard brpshing. The comparison will be based on their relative power to prevent dental decay. Metal coating A new coating material sprayed on structures, - such as storage tanks, bridges, water towers, harbor buoys, - shields metals against moisture, acid and alkali gases, fumes, and similar causes of deterioration by providing a coating many times thicker than paint. Developed by the Arco Company, Cleveland, Ohio, the spray requires minimum surface preparation. The only drawback in its use is that it cannot be used over bituminous substance. Celestial radio Recently two scientists at Harv:lrd (Continued on the next page) * 221 Significant World News ••. (Continued from page 220) most of the office and maintenance per·sonnel must be Ecuadoreans. Cuba ·has also granted several franchises to several companies for licensed air transport jlervice. Venezuela opened to DP's Venezuela opened its doors to Displaced Persons. The government has already admitted 15,000, most of whom are French, S,panish, and Italians. In welcoming the first batch of immigrants, El Universal, Venezuela's leading daily, said: "Those 'newcomers who have come to rebuild their lives in Vene~uela will find in thls country an atmosphere conducive to the fulfillment of their desires and aspirations." Guatemala puts into effect the law on Saturday half ·holidays The government of Guatemala recently put into effect its new law limiting working hours to 45 a week. The new regulation provides that commercial establishments employing ten or more people must close on Saturday at one o'clock in the afternoon and remain closed until the following Monday. The law excludes, however, drug stores, gas stations, florist shops, grocery stores, soda fountains and lunch counters, bakeries and pastry shops, meat and fish markets, vegetable and fruit stores, dairies, and other establishments essential to the everyday welfare of the people. Peruvian school children will plant trees The government of Peruvia issued a decree requiring all school chlldren to plant trees. From then on planting and care-taking of trees would form a part of children's school activities. Community authorities select the locations for planting and finance the projects. Thls 222 * Science Marche~ On ••• (Continued from page 221) University, picked up radio waves believed to emanate from the sun. These waves do not differ greatly from ordinary static. If this is true, these waves could be used - with a directional antenna - as a guide in navigation based on the ;position of the sun even under clouded skies. Filterable virus A "filterable virus" has been discovered by researchers of the State Health Department of New York to be the cause of gastro-intestinal infection, ... ~om monly known as intestinal f.iue, Doctor Herman E. Hilleboe reported. Several outbreaks of epidemic of this gastro-intestinal infection occurred in New York State institution less than a year ago. The disease is characterized by diarrhea, often accompanied by vomiting, and usually by the absence of fever. Symptoms ordinarily persist for about three days. Dr. Hilleboe said that the disease is not airborne, but is highly infectious and can readily be transmitted in water, milk, and food. New treatment for Glaucoma DFP (di-isopropyl fluorophosphate), a poison gas developed during the war, is now being used medicinally to treat glaucoma, an eye disease which often causes blindness, according to the report handed recently by the Army Chemical Corps to the American Chemical Society. DFP causes the muscles of the eye to contract the pupil to pin-point s+ze and the contraction relieves the pressure of fluid that accumulates and threatens to impair vision or even des~ troy sight. DFP is a compound of carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, fluorine and phosphorus. is done to make the project practical for both the community and the school. Current Events Review, Jan. 1948 Why Must Italy ••• (Continued from page 200) munists in the next national election to be held in April. If the United States help comes before the election, then there is a good chance for the Christian Democrats to gather more votes. There is a keen struggle now going on between the Christian Democrats and the Communists. The Communists under Togliatti are exerting their efforts to strengthen their party for the next election. It may be possible that the Italian Communists will use force to attain their ends. Only the next few critical months will tell whether or not Italy will become a Communist-controlled country. Exercises to Develop Thinking 1. What are the problems of Italy today? What brought about these problems? 2. Can you show the relation between the economic ,problems of Italy and the progress of democracy in Italy? 3. Give several reasons why Italy needs outside help. 4. Do you think the Italians have a chance to become a successful democratic country after more than 20 years of Fascist rule ? Why ? 5. Poverty is the strongest ally of the Communists.' Explain the meaning of this statement. 6. Why should the democracies use all their efforts to save Italy? References 1. Hermens, Ferdinand A.-"Which Road, Italy?" Current History Vol. 13, No, 72 (August, 1947), pp. 78-81. 2. Gentili, Salvatore.-"ltaly, Cripple or Convalescent?" Current History, Vol. !2, No. 67 (March, 1947) pp. 220-224. 3. Sforza, Count Carlo. - "Italy's International Outlook." United Nations World, Vol. 1, No. 2 (March, 1947) p. 14. 4. "Comintern Move Sharpens Party World Problem What is the Future ••• (Continued from page 210) fear special responsibilities because of their strength and resources. While these responsibilities bring with them special advantages, the great powers must recognize that restraint is an essential com,panion of power and pnVIlege. The 1 United Nations will never endure if there is insistence on privilege to the point of frustration of the collective will." Study Helps 1. Is Marshall right in saying that restraint is essential to the success of the United Nations? Why? 2. Do you think that it is proper for the rule of unanimity among the 8ig Powers to go against the collective will of 50 nations? Why? What is the immediate need of the United Nations? The great handicap of the UN is that it is functioning in a world different from that conceived at San Francisco. •iwhat the UN has been called,'" wrote the Christian Science Monitor, "is to keep a peace that does not yet exist. The UN has been called to be a referee in a game• that has no rules, no boundary lines; no clear objectives even." Study Helps 1. Is the statement true ? Why? 2. What then is the immediate need of the UN? Struggle in Italy," The New York Times, October 12, 194 7, p. ES. 5. "Communist Shift in Italy and France," World Report Vol. 3, No. 16 (October 14, 1947) pp. 10-11. 6. Strumia, Max Maurice, - "Is Italy Worth Saving," The Saturday Evening Post, February 8, 1947, pp. 31-62. 7. Hauser, Ernest 0. - "ltaITs Black Shirt Fa<\es to Red," The Saturday Evening Post, Vol. 218, No. 9 (September 1, 1945) ;pp. 18-19, 94-96. The Philippines and the ••• (Con!inued from page 216) terest of 4-1/2%. The high interest was insisted on by the President so as to ei::icour~ge Filipino investors and to attract hesitant capital. Filipinos Training in the United States Two hundred and twenty-four Filipinos are now undergoing training in the United States under the training provisions of the Philippine Rehabilitation Act of 1946, according to figures released by the State Department. All these Filipinos enjoy first-class privileges at the expense of the American gove.rnment. They receive training in such fields as public health, engineering, road-building and civil aeronautics. Before the expiration of the program in 1950, at least 500 Filipinos will have received a minimum of a year of specialized training in the United States. The Philippine Rehabilitation Act of 1946 was passed by the American Congress in recognition of the gallantry of An ideal textbookECONOMltS For Philippine High S1Jhools by Celeste, Capino & Ella Complete, Elucidating, Up-to-dateVolume lFirRt Sem<~skr Vol.Il-8econd s~mer..;ler 1'5.00 P5.00 At MANLAPAZ PUBLISH· ING CO., 123 Reten, Sampaloc, Manila or at LEADING BOOK STORES 224 ,,, How has Burma ••• (Continued from page 214) 7. Do you think the inability of Britain to. defend Burma is an important facto!" in granting Burmese freedom? Why? 8. What single factor brought about the grant of Burmese freedom? 9. Du;ing the debate on the Burma bill in the House of Commons, Churchill said that the grant of independence to Burma would be followed by bloodshed as in the case of India. Do you believe this statement? Why? 10. Clement Attlee du,ring the debate on the Burma bill said: "I regret' that, Burma had decided against becoming a British dominion." Why does Attlee regret the choice of the Burmese for independence? References 1. "Burma Asks for Independence," Current Events Review, Vol. II, No. 10 (April, 1947) pp. 5-6; 8. 2. "Burma Compromise," Far Eastern SU'rvey, Vol. XVI, No. 12 <June 18, 1947) pp. 133-138. 3. Pay,ne,. Robert. - The Revolt of Asia, (1947) pp. 244-251. 4. LeRoy, Christian, John.-Modern Bu7ma, (1942) pp. 23-46; 248-268. 5. Isaacs, Harold R.-No Peace for Asia (1947) pp. 202-204. · the Filipinos during the war against Japan. Approximately P6,000,000 will be spent by the American governritent on training Filipinos in the United State:;. The training of Filipinos is under.the supervision of 8 United States government agencies - Public Roads Admin~ istration, the Army Corps of Engineers, the Public Health Service, the United Stat~s Maritime Commission, the Civil Aeronautics Administration, the Weather Bureau, the Fish and Wildlife Service, and the Coast and Geodetic Survey. Current Events Review, Jan. 1948 Why the Current Events Review Thr CliHHENT EVENTS REVIEW i• now in its third year of •erviee to high school students. The CUUHENT EVENTS REVIEW is the only newsmagazine that presents Current Events materials for classroom purpose~. Thr Cl IHHENT EVENTS UEVIEW completes and makes up-lo· dat<· 1111• •tud~· of history and othet• social science suh,iects. The <:(IHHENT EVENTS ICEVU:W is a fh·e·•tar newsmagazine··· ,\ 1111roved hy the Government for use in the secondary schools (June 10, 194·6). ··· l{ecommended hy the Catholic Educational Association of the Philippines for use in all Catholic schools (Jun~, 1946). ··· .\pp1·oved f01· use as Refe1·e11ce Material hy the Dir·ectot• of Private Education (Aug. 7, 194-7). * Adopted as an indispensable news text by outstanding teachers. * Rated as an Excellent Publication by the U.S. Department of State: Office of International Information and Cultural Affait·s (Dec. 24·, 1946). 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