Current Events Review

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Part of Current Events Review

Title: Current Events Review
Issue Date: Vol. IV (No. 1) July 1948
Year: 1948
Language: English
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extracted text: published for high school students---<levoted fo the selection, organ• ~'l:.liiMr!Jiir"i""'"1nta~ion, and review of current news for lessons in current ecents. (APJ110ved for general reading by the Department of Instruction) (Recommended for use in all Catholic schools by the CEAP) (,\pprovi!d for - as Reference Matlerial by the Office of Private Education) • WhY did the Last Italian Election become a Dramatic Show for the Whole World? * * * .. Wha pes the U. S. Summary of SovietAmerican Issues Reveal? • A Re~ort on the Activities of the United Nations July, 1948 30 centavos CURRENT EVENTS REVIEW A newsmagazine that completes and makes u1 p-to-date the study of history and other social science subjects. DIOSDADO G. CAP!NO Edit<Yr f>. R. MANLAPAZ P.Wlisher POLICARPIO G. DANGAI.,IO DOMINGO C. SERION Re'searchers NICOLAS ONGKINGKO Circula.tion Mana.ger Jn this issueVENANCIO NEBRIDA Cfrculation Re:pre!::i~ntatfre Page Why did the Last Italian Election become a Dramatic Show for the WhoLe World? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Why is the War of Documents Significant? .... . . . . . . . . . . . l:i Why is the Western Union a Warning to Russia?........ 9 Why was Czechoslovakia's Democracy Ki1led? . . . . . . . . . . 12 What dee& the U. S. Summary of Soviet-American Issues Reveal'? .. .... .. .. .. .. .. . .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 16 Will Russia Back Up Its Peace Offensives with Concr.ete and Specific Peace Action? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Is the Communist Near East Drive a Failure? . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Science Marches On . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Significant Wcrld News Roundup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 The Philippines and the World . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Publ:shed .nwnthly e-rcopt Af,ay and June by MANLAPAZ PUBLISHING CO. 123-125 Retcn, Sampakic, Manila Subscription: P3. 00 a year, Pl. 50 a .semester, 30 cen.tavm; rf"r cop\'. When changiflg- address give old as well as new address. Addres~ all communicatfon..s to the Current Events Review. Copyright, 1948 by D. R. Manla.paz and D. G. Capino. All rights resP.rved. Entered as second-c1.ass mail matter Jarnuarv 9, 1947 at the Manila vost-office. . What is the obligation of the new lt.alian government? Why did the Last Italian Election become a Dramatic Show for the Whole World? Specific objectives: 1. To understand ithe ·significance of the last Italian election 2. To understand why Russia and the democracies became involved in the election 3. To· know the nature of the election oampaigns 4. To get acquainted with the obligation of the new government l'he last election in Italy was a worldshaking election. It was part of the Cold War between the United States and Russia. Why wa& the election significant for the world? Why were the United States and Russia . involved in the outcome of the election? Why was the election an important factor in the preservation of world ;peace? What is the obligation of the new Italian government? How did Communism arise in Italy? It may be very surprising for us to know the speed with which the people of Italy fell under the whip of the Communis.ts. Three years after the liberation of Ita.1y by the Allies on June 6, 1944, the Communist party in Italy has grown to become one of the lar,gest in the world. In 1939 there was no real Communist party in Italy. In 1944 the membership in the Communist party was· 50,000. In 1945 there were 385,000 members. Today there ai"e 2,500,0-00 membel-s. This number is larger than the Catholic popu1ation. 'Vhat factors were responsib1e for the rapid growth of Communism in Italy? First, the Italians were ready for a change in the political :eetup after the World Affairs overthrow ·of the regime of Benito Musso}i.ni. Twenty years1 of Italian dictatorship prepared the people for a change in government. The Communists sent to Italy by Russia helped prepare the chango in the political climate of the country. Second, lack of planning and indifference on the part of the American military government inspired the Russians to offer Communism to the Ital4 ians. The Americans thought it wise to let the Italians choo!:e their own form of ,government. The Russian political leaders thought it best to send Communists to Italy to lay the ground for Communism. Among the Communist leaders sent to Russia were PaJmiro Togliatti, FaU.sto Lon.go; Mauro Scoccime.rro, Guiseppe di Vittotiro, and Velo Spano. · Third, the Co.mmunist party has a great 1advante.ge over the democraciea in launching the propaganda for a new way of living. Millions of printed leaf4 lets .and posters, and lira, the official Italian money, were sent to Italy by the Communist political leaders to boost Commmun'ism. Communi.st leaders constructed the "front" orgia.nization that gave them control of the labor organizations. They establis•hed the Youth Movement. They joined ·Several nonCatholic organizations. They even join .. ed women organizations. They established cells in villages to get the sup4 port of the peasants who were eager to acqu'ire a piece of land. They also estabHshe:d a secret army called "Appa~ rat". They also tried to cooperate with the Socialist party so that they could get a firm hold on the political movement ef the nation. Fourth, the Communist leaders tried their best to mechanize the political movement. Haw did the government fight for existence? The democratic elements in Italy fought for the existence of the government. after the liberation of Italy. The national elections held on June 2, 1946 ~ave the Christian .Democrats, the Sl)cia!ists, and the Communists the largest number of votes. Pa>"ty Christian Democrats Soc"ialists Communists ~-ational Demouatic Votes 8,083.208 4,744,749 4,342,722 Seats 207 11'\ 104 Union 1,559,417 41 Uamono Qualunque 1.,209,918 30 Republican 997 ,690 23 National Freedom Bloc 636,493 16 Action Party 333,758 The Coalition Cabinet forme,l in 194() and the early 1 part -of 1947 fared well because the differcmt parties cooperated with one another. In the midd1e of 194,, however, the Communists failed to cooperate with Premier Alcide de Gasperi in solving the economic problems of the nation. Am~mg these pr,oblems were strikes, food shortage, and inflation. (Inflation means the sudden ihcrease in the quantity of money in circulation.) In November and Decembe:r of 1947, Communist-inspired strikes took place in many parts of Italy. They were launched to embarrass the go'\>ernment Defore the people. The government, hcwever, took a firm stand and g-ave the Communists .a. beating. Election became a /if e or death strugg/.e The Italian elections of April 18, 1948, became a question of life or death struggle between the Democratic 1and the Communist forces. A C-ommunist victory in the election would mean the triumph o.f Communism in a country that is traditionally Cathallc. To the Catholics, the victory of the Chritstian Democrats would mean -the preservation uf Catholicism. A Communist victory. would mean the victory of Russia in br'ingiflg Italy under the Iron Curtain. The victory .of the Christian Democrats wo0uld mean the prese;vation of Italian democracy. The elections wer-e also significant for the world. 'l'he elecUons would mean either the preservatiQn of peace or .Uie outb11 eiak of war. A Communist victory would / mean Russian acquisition of a strategic position in the Central Mediterranean. This would endanger the British ulife-line" to India. H Would mean the extension of Communism to Greece and Turkey. A Communist victory 'in Italy would be the be·ginning of an offensive to bring Western Europe within the Iron Curtain. A victory for the Christi.an Democrats would mean the preservation of democracy in Italy. It would mean the. preservation of the balance of power in Southern Europe and a check on Russian expansion in Western Europe. How the Communists conducted the campaign The Communists used every conceivable means of winning the elections~ They promised the peasants ownership of the lands they were tilling. They promised the peasants the lands they would get after a Communi'St victor/. They al:so promised the peasants ·free farm implements should the Communists become victorious. The Commrunist:., a)so promised goverrtmel)t control of factories· for the benefH; of the laborers and not for the capitalists. 2 Current Events Review-Vol. IV, No. l Not content with verbal promises, the communists also made use of religi1ous propaganda. They printed leafJets conta'ining the injunctions of saints ao::;ldng the peasants to vOte for the Popular Front. Millions of p.osters and leaflets were printed and sy~tematically distrib· uted ov-er Italy. What did the Communists tell the people? The Communist leaders told the voters six things: ( 1) Italy has been 8old to the United States. She would side the United States in case of Wiar. Italy wou,Jd, then, become the center of stru.~· gle because of its strategic position in the Mediterranean. Russia stands fot peace. Therefore, Italy must vote for Communism. (2) The Communist party is the only p.arty ¢hat can give a strong government. The nation needs a ~trong government to solve the -economic problems of the oountry. The Italians, therefore, rnrust vote for Communism. (3) American economi"c aid means th<: enslav-ement of the Italians. Russia alone can save the Italians from DoUar Imperialism. ( 4) The Italians need religiou ; freedom. A Communist victory would mean the exercise of control over the Vatican. (5) Tr'ie!:te, a territory dear to every ltalia-n, could not be returned by the Americans. A friend~hip with Communist Yugoslavia is the only solution for its return to Italy because then Yup:oslavia could giv·e up her claim'on Trieste. (6) RUS5'ia can supply all the goods coming from the United States. Russian wheat ·harvests are excellent. How the Christian D?mocrats conducted the campaign The Ohristian Democrats did their best to win the campaign. The party appealed to all Catholics to support the World Affairs party in the election campaign. The Church ""PPorted the party. Pope Pius. XI enjoined the Catholics to vote for the Christian Democrats. A vote for the Communists was considered a violation of Christiari princi11les. Civil Comm'ittees were created in every vii· lage to counteract it.he work of the Communist Cells. Three quarters of all Italian newspapers joined the fight against Communi~sm. A systematic method 'Of contacting- every voter i·n every street was introduced. What did the anti-Communists tell the people? The anti-Communists told the voters six points: (1) The people of Italy f·oughf for freedom from Fascism in \Vorld \Var II. A victory for Communism would ·mean the 1·eturn c,f 1lic!.11for.<thip. ( 2) Financial rui.n would result if the Communists win because American economic aid would be withdrawn. (3) Italians would suffer from severe starvation because American grain artd flour would be withdr.awn in case cf a Communist victory. (4) Commirnist control of Italy wou1d se1 t>.arate Italy from ithe rest of the democratic world. ( 5) War would like!~ break out in case of a Communist victory because the democratic world would try to check Rus· sian expansion. (6) The preservatio!l of democracy in Italy would giv2 lt•Jy .an equal footing with the other nations of the world. A vote for Communimn would mean the loss of this' equality. How the East and the West helped in the ltaltan elections Russia 2.nd the Western powers were directly ~:-wolved in the worldshaking Italian elections. The wester~ 1 t>OwerSthe United States, England, and France 3 - made four important moves. First, they urged the return of Trieste to Italy, Russia was caught unaware because Italian Communists favored the return ·Jf Trieste, Second, 1the Western powers asked Russia to reconsider the application of Italy as a member in the United Nations. Thousands of Communists became glad of this move because it was Russia who had refused to admit Italy to the United Nations. Third, millions of Americans in the United States of It'alian descent wrote letters addressed to Italians to vote for the Christian Democrats. Fourth, statements were issued from Washington that American aid would be withdrawn H Italy became Communist. R1ussia tried to counteract the offensives of the \V estern powers by foti..• significant moves. First, Russia sent money to Italy with which to wage an effective propagandia for the Communht candidates. Second, Russia refused 00 discuss the return of Tr'ieste because of a possible friendship with Communist Yugoslavia. Third, Russia continued to tell the Italians tha~ American aid would mean Dollar ens1avement of the Italia1.s. Fourth, Rus:;ia promised to give financial aid to Italy to ofi·set the aid coming under the Marshall plan. What is the significance of the results of the .election? The Italian elections were hdd on April 18, 1948. The government did its best to make the elections clean and free. The elections showed that the Italians were very much concerned with the outcome .of the· issue between Communism and democracy. More persons voted in the last e!ections than in any other election in the entire history of Italy. More than 27,000,000 pe<1ple voted. The results of the elections were as follows: 4 % of Party popular N-0. of vow seat& Christian Democrats 48.7 307 Popular Front 30.7 182 Right Wing Socialist 7.1 33 All other parties 13.5 52 The Christi,an Democrats won an unexpected vic4ory. The party won absolute majority in the Chamber of Deputies. The party became the most powerful party in Italy. The victory of the Christian Democrats rn.eant the victory of the Western powers and the defeat of Russia. ~ The defeat of .the Communists. has several meanings. First, it means that the, Communists m·ust intensify their campai11?;'ns, redouble their efforts in organizing more Cells, and increa·se the- members of the Communist party. Second, the Communist party must larunch their lon,g-1~ange program. According to Tog ... liatti, the Communist leader, the longrange program calls for increased membership, effective propaganda, organiza ... tion of more Cells, and preparation for the seizure of the powers of the government by force. What is the obligation iaf the Christian Democrats in Italy today? The Christian Democrats must now initiate social ·and economic reform::;. lnf .. ation, unemployment, land troubles, food shortage must now be solved. The outcome of the elections showed that 1 voter out of 3 had cast his ballot for the Communists. The results of the election also showed the deep dissatisfaction of the people with their social and economic conditions. Premier de Gas ... peri said before a large crowd after the elections: "We are not reactionaries. Every social reform which has been promised will be made.'~ These promises Current Events Review-July, 1948 which the Christian Democrats have made must be fulfilled because Italy is not yet safe from Communism. Exercises llo Develop Thinking 1. A writer in the N~w York H<'l'<Lld Tribu= said that the fallure of the American occupation forces to introduce a careful plan for democracy enabled Russia to take advantage of the s.Uuation, thus making Italy ready for Communism. Do you think this statement is justifiable? Why? Explain how the Americans could have prevented the growth of Communism in Italy. 2. How did Russia Communize Italy? Is Communism being introduced in the Philippines? How? 3. How did the government of de Gasperi fight for its existence? 4. Was the appeal of the Catholk Church for the su1wort of the Christian Democrats a violation of the doctrine of the separation of the Church and the State? Why? 5. \Vhy was the world concerned with the ootcome of the elections in Ita!y? 6. S"udy the methods of l?ampaiga used by the Communists and the Christian Democrats. Can you find any similarity between the methods used by the Communists in Europe and those used in the Philippines? 7. Would you favor the inclusion of Communists in the Cabinet of the new INSIST on Italian government? Why? 8. Why do you think Italy is not yet safe from Communism? 9. How may the new Italian govern .. ment solve the economic and social prob .. \ems of the people? 10. Do y.ou favor Communist col1aboration in solving our problems in the Philippines? Why or why not? References l. Cortesi, A1:naido. ''\....ommunist Test ln ltaJy lVfoves Toward Chm.ax,'' 1·n.e. New Y01·k Times, March 14 1948, p, E3. 2. ''Communist Timetable in Italy," U.S. News and W<>rld Re'f"Jrt, Vol. XXIV, No. 12 (March 19, 1948) pp. 16-17. 3. Hau~er, Ernest 0. "Trieste: Fuse of World War III?" The Saturday Evewing Post, Vol. 220, No. 38 (March 20, 1948), pp. 28-29; 161164. 4. Kirchwey, Freda. "Prospects in {ta .. ly," The Nat•on, Vol. 166, No. 18 (May 1, 1948) ,pp. 255·456. 5. N eikind, Clairt "Italy's Dark April," New &public, Vol. 118, No. 13 (March 29, 1948) pp. 12.16. 6. Rosi, Mario. "Italy Between thtt Blocks," The Nation, Vol. 166, No. 14 (April 3, 1948) pp. 369-370. 7. Sulzberger, C. L. "Italy in the Shadow of Hamraer 1and Sickle," The New York Times Magazine (March 21, 1948) pp. 10; 28. SI ESOPO AT ANG KANYANG MGA KATHA-KATHA By Dr. PEDRO BUENASEDA, M.D. for pristine, classic and sublime National Languag.e, APPROVED by the Bureau of Public Schools and Irnstitute of National Language. DEALERS: Llbreria de J. Martinez 296 Doroteo Jose Street, Manila, and ' World Affairs Malolos Grocery, M. Crisostomo Street Malolos, Bulacan. 5 What historical facts are reveated? Why is the War of Documents Significant? Specific objectives; 1. To understand the reasons for the publication of the historical clocuments. 2. To kn.ow the historical provisions Df the documents. 3. To understand the historical significa·nce of the War .of Documents? The first two months of 1948 were m$rked by the War of Documents between the United States and Russia. The "Cold War'' which had been going on between the two nations became ~i war of "hot words'>. The War of .Documents brought out certain historical facts. \Vhat are these facts? What is the significance of the Wai' of Documents? What did the world know be/ ore W or'6' War II? TaLks of war were common during the fo"t seven months of 1939. After acquiring Austria and Cezchoslovakia, Hitler asked for a "living space".. Mussolini ordered the Italian people to ·prepare for an inevitable war with the democracies. The Japanese were purpuing their war with Chi'lla. The three democracies - The United States, France, and Britain - ~ere building· their defenses itoo, for the coming w:ir. The democracies, however, were not well prepa~d for the war because they h~d not followed a pol'icy -of rearming themselves between 1929' and 1939, While the nations of the world were expecting a peaceful settlement of the differences between the Dictatorships and Democracies, Russi.a and Germany announced the conclusion of a 10-year n-on-8.ggression pa~t between them, The world was suriprised because it knew .that Hitler hated Russia. Hitler said in his M-eim Kampf (My Struggles): "Never forget that the rulers of present-day Russia .are eommoh blood-stained crimina1s; thit they a·re the sc1um of human'ity". What did the world know during World War II? Hitler attacked Po1and on September 1, 1939. Poland wao .divided between G~rmany .and Russia. The German army attacked and invaded Russia on June 22, 1941. The treacherous attack 011 Pearl Harbor was la.unched on December 7, 1941. By for~e of circumstances the United States, England, and Russia be.came allies. The European war ended in Europe on May 7, 1945 and the Pacific W a'.r on September 2, 1945. There was great optimism that the wartime unity of the Al.Jied Powers would' con,tinue after •the end of World War JI. Peaceful eollaboration among the Allies was the promise of the Big Three in one of the'ir hi·storical conferences. How did the United S~ates acquire a powerfiu/ ammunition in the CQld War? Early in ApriJ, 1945, the American forces fought their way into the Harz Mountain region of Germany. The for .. ces under the command of Gen. Omar N. Bradley took possession of four cha .. Current Events Review-J.uly, 1948 teaux in the forest and seized the records of the German Foreign Office from the year 1871 to 1944, Baron von Griesheim, the Nazi in cha.rge of the records confessed that. he refused to burn the documents because he wanted future historians to know the truth. These do .. cuments were studied by Americah, British, and French scholars in Berlin, Germany. Why did the United States use the Documents in the Cold War? The Amerioan staff assigned to work on the documents collected those documents which had reference to the relations between Hitler and S•talin from 1939 to 1941. These documents on the Hitler-Stalin relatfon:s were kept secret for thr.ee years a1though many advisers of Gen. George C. Marshall told the General to publish them. General Marshall refused the suggestion because publication of the documents would embarrass Russia, a wartime ally of rthe United States. On Ja11uary 22, 1948, the United States Departn.ent made public a book entitled: Nazi-Soviet Relafui<mB, 1939-1941. _It contained texts of 250 .of the documents of the German Foreign Office from 1871 to 1944. The__ documents were published to answer the Rus&ian charge that the l.Jnited. States is an imperialistic power conducting a propaganda war directed against the Soviet Union. Wh.at hisfiorical facts are re.v,ealed in the Documents? The following h'istorical facts were not known to the world before J alllll<lry 22, 1948. 1. Russia 00.oh the initiative. - It was Russia who took the initiative in the conclusion of a 10 .. year non-aggres .. sion pact announced on August 23, 1939. The world was made to believe that it was Hitler who took the initiative in signilljg a treaty with Russia. because she feared Russian attack from the East. .i:.. • .1.·1uc-rt~ . U1ls a stcret protucoi, - A secret protocol was s1gnea by li.us·sia. an<.I ·>..lermany on August ~3, UM9 to div1cte burope into Hussian and German spneres of influence. A line was to be drawn from the Baltic to the Black Sea. AH lands east of the line would ·be under .Russian influence. All lands west of the li'ne wou\d be under German in ... fluence. Russia would get o.he-half of Poland and would have fl- free hand in the Baltic states - EStOnia, Latvia, and Lithuania. 3. Stµl:n wib1hed Nazi success. - The world was made to be.ieve that Stalin hated Nazi yictory. The documents show that Josef Stalin wished the Nazis, complete success in all their invasions. 4. krusrria d£1manded a high price. - The Anti .. Comintern Pact was :Signed by Gormany, Italy, and Japan to fight Communism. Ribbentrop, a top Nazi war criminal, reported that Stalin was willing to become a member of the Anti~ Comintern P1act provided his price was met. Stalin demanded a high price in terms of the territories he would like to have in Eur.ope. 5. Th-ere was a ,plan to div."'de thB wo1,ld. - A secret protocol was drawn in which Russia·, Germany, Italy ~nd J.apan described their territorial ambi .. tions. Russiia wanted to get Finland, the Balkans, and Persia. Russia als~ wanted land and nav.al, bases near_ the Darda·nelles. Germany thought that her World Affairs 7 territorial aspiration centered in Central Africa. Italy tkought that her ter. ritorial aspiration centered in Northern and Northeastern Africa. J.;ipan was thinking of Eastern Asia and the Sout'1 Bea Empire. Fortun.ately this proposed four power conference on ·the division of the world failed. 6. Early Gerrma:n attack on Rus.stia. - -On December 18; 1940, Hitler issued a directive called 11 0peration BarbaroS:sa" for an attack ·on Russia. Hitler told F<>reign Minister Yasuke Matsuoka of Japan that if Russia would n'ot take proper action with Hitler, Russia would be crashed. 7. Germwny attaclced Yuguslllvia. - Molotov proposed that Russia and Yugoslavia conch1d.e 1a treaty of friendship. Hitler opposed this proposed treaty because it would endanger German aspirations in the Balkans. Germany attacked Yugoslavia on April 16, 1941. 8. Germany broke the 10-y.ear nO?taggrc'8sfon pact. - It was Germany who bi:oke the 10-year non-aggression pact bi:!!tween Russia and Germany. The world was made to believe that it was Russia who broke the non-aggression pact. It was Hitler who ordered Ger .. man troops to march to Russfa. On JO\lne 22, 1941 Schulnberg w"s told to see Moloto\· to present a declaration of war. Russia replied to the w~r of Documents. The publication of the secret docu-inents showed how Russia had succeed.ed in getting a slice of Europe. For nineteen days, Russia said no~h'ing regarding the publication of the Nazi,.,So1!i•t Relations, 1939-1941. Then on Feb8 ruary 9, 1948, Russia began her offensive in the Cold War. Russia denied the facts revea12d 'in the Nazi-Soviet Relations, 1939.1941. The faldJiers of History (A Historical Document) came out i-n serial form in Russia. It was the answer of Russia to the publication of the Nazi:Saviet RelMims, 1939-1940. It mt forth the charges of Russia against the three Western powers. What were these charges? 1. American dolla11s .built Germany's ·war machiwe. - Rrussia tried to show that American dollars Joaned to certain countries in Erurope after the World War I were responsible for the building of the powerful German war machine. 2. Britain am.d France brought abottt World War II. - According to the Russian document, Britain and France refused to conclude an alliance with Rus.sia to preven.t World War II. Instead of concluding .an alliance, the two countries appeased. Hitler at Munich by 1 giv'ing the Sudeten lands to Germany. Appeasement of Hitler brought about the Nazi war of aggression. 3. Britain an.cl Fr/ll>Ute :made Hitler wage war on Riiss:a. - Russia accused Britain and FraJl).ce as the nations responsible for making Hitfer wage war on Russia on June 22, 1941. Significance of the War of Documents The War of Documents followed the publication of .articles and editoria1s on the historical facts of the documents. Radio comentators analyzed and interpreted the significance of the secret deals :miade between Stalin and Hitler. (Please turn to page 32) Current Events Revii!w-July, 1948 Why is Westem Union unprecedented in history? Why is the Western Union a Warning to Russia? Specific objectives: 1. To understand the origin of the W ester.n Union 2. To get acquainted with the steps in the formation of the Western Union 3. To know the proVisions of the agreement 4. To understand the significance of the Western Union The first three months of 1948 saw a tense wor .. d talking about the outbreak of World War III. The war of Documents between Russia and the United Staies changed the "Cold War" into a war -0f hhot words". Czech democracy fell for the second tim~ in 10 years) The Mar;hall Plan was debated bitterly in Congress. One event, how~ ever, became unprecedented in modern history; the birth of the Western Union. What was the origin of the Westeri1 Union?. What steps were taken to form the u: ... ion? What agreements were reached? What is the significance of the Wes tern Union? When was the Western Union conceived? One evening in December, 1947, a group of British and French political leaders were sitting in .a room in London. Among them were Foreign Secretary Er.nest Bevin, Prime Minister Cl~ ment Attlee, Winston Churchill, and Foreign French Minister Georges Bidault. The London Oonferenee of Foreign Ministers was about to close. The failure of ihe Conference to settle ·the peace World Affairs problems of. the world was f-0rseen by· the group ·of political leaders. After the failwe of the London Conference, the British and French political leaders were talking informary about plans regarding the solution of their common problems. The French leader and F()reign Minister, Georges Bidault. ... was asked to reconsider the French stand on Germany. He promised to reconsider, so when the group parted, there was optimiSm regarding the recons'ideration of the German problem by theFrench. When was the W.estern Union proposed? On January 22, 1948 British Foreign. Secretary Ernest Bevin delivered ~ speech in the House of CommoM in which he made a summary 'Of the repo1·t of the meeting of the Council of Foreign Ministers in London. He reviewed the problems of peace and the difficultie& met in trying to solve them. Bevin suggested the formation of a Western Un'ion .. He said . that the nations of Wes.tern Europe must unite. These nations have common sacr'ifices in w.ar, common hatred of injustice and .oppression, common love of democracy ·and liberty, a.nd common striving for economic rights. He said, "I believe the time is ripe for a consolidation of Western Europe." The union must be a spiritual union. It must be ba·sed on terms· of equality and justice. It must be.guided by democr:acy H must contain all the elements of free .. dom for which all Western Europe stands. what was the immediate reaction to the proposal? How was the proposal for the formation of the 'Western Union received? The British reeeived it gladly bec.aiu&0 they were convinced that Russia had refused to cooperate in the peaceful settlement -0f the problems of world peace. France did not immedia~ly accept the proposal although there was an under:!!tanding between the British and the French leaders regairding tho project. The Scandinavian coWltrie-; hesitated because they wanted to remain neut>-al. What steps wue taken to form the Western Umo11? In his speeeft, Foreign Secretary Bevin suggested the ete'p that should be taken in the formation of the Western Onion. The first should be an understanding with France because the two countriea have many things in common. Britain and Fra.nce signed a 50-year allianc~ on March 7, 1947 in which they pledged to support one another in case of a:'l attack by a revived Germany. The two countries are also work'ing harmoniously over the European EConomic Program. Both countries are great lovers of freedom. The second step in the formation. of the union was to hav.e an understanding with the Benelux countries-Belgium, the Netherlands, and· Luxembourg. The third step should be the invitation· of other historical members of European civilization incllllding Italy and Portugal. The fourth step pointed to the possible irncl\lsion of the overseas po!'sessions of Britain, France, Belgium, the Netlierlands, and PortugaL "The organizatioru of Western Eµrope," said Bevin, "m.m::i:t be economically supported. That involves the closest possible collaboration ·with the Commonwealth and with overseas territories, not only British '6ut French, Dutch, .:Selgium, and 1-'ortuguese. . . They ·have raw materials, fuod and re.sources which eain be turned to very great commen advantage, bOth t-> the people of the territories theinselves, to Europe, and to the world as .a whole.'' How w.as Russia responsible for hastening the f orTTliltion of the Western Union? Historical decisions a.re often the results of historical events. These events involve the safety and security of the life of a nati.on. When Bevin made his proposal for ~ Western Union on January 22, 1948, the United States was the only country that sincerely believed and welcomed the preposal. The -otller countrie! of EurQ{le hesitated because of personal reasons. The march -of Oommunism across Europe forced the countries of \Vestern Europe to act. The Commun'ist coup in Czechoslovakia had killed Czech democracy. The Russian Communists had threatened Scandi·navia. Russia had asked for the conclusion of a treaty with Finland. 'l'hese events shocked the countries of Western E'1lrope. On March 7, 1948 representatives of Britain, France, Belgfum, the Netherlands, and' Luxembour,g met in Paris to discuss the formation of a \Vestern Union. After 9 historic days, the formation of the Western Union was agreed upon by the conference. What are the Provisions of.the Alliance? Great Britain, France, Belgium, HolJand, and Luxembourg signed a 50-year .tr~ty of aUiance, both econom'ie and military. The treaty provides for social, econo~ic, and military coo~:roation among the signatories. The treaty provides for the closest economic coordination of the economic system 'Of the five nations, muta.al assistance in case one , member Current Events Review-July, 1948 is attacked by any power in Europe, military oonsultation if a colony of eacl1 m.1.tiov is attacked, and standardization of social zervices among the five nations. The sta·ndard',zation of social service;; includes standardim.tion of old-ag_e pensions and unemployment compensation. What is the significance of the formation of the Western Union? The proposals f.or the Western Union is a milestone in the history of England because she has decided to make a change in her foreign poHcy. For many centUries since the time of ·w illiam of Orange, it was the Brit'ish policy to keep aloof from the affairs of the oontinent. It was also the British policy to keep the balance of power originated by WilHam of Orange. Britain tried to keep the balance of power so that two opposing powers should not go to war. She did this during the French Revolution, Crimean War, World '~lar I and WorM War II. Now she has abandon ell this - policy. She has decided to merge with th~ western countries of Europe. This means active partic'ipatfon in the affairs of Europe. The formation of ,the Western Union is the beginning of a New Europe. Other western countries 'may join the union for their own good. Oooperation iti. the solution of problems affecting an the European countries will hasten peace in Eur9pe. The formation of the Western Union may be the first step in the formation of a United States of Europe advocated by Winston S. Churchill and other Etate.•men. Churchill advocated the formation of a United Sta:tel!I of Europe iin an Wm-Id Affairs ar.ticle written by him in the Saturday Even;ng Post (February 15, 1930). During his broadcast on March 21, 1943, he urged the creation cf a Council of. Europe. At. Fu!ton, Missouri, he urged the formation of a fN11ternal as·sociation of all English speaking peoples. On September 19, 1947 he delivered a speech at Zurich, Switzerland, outlining the plan for a United States -0f Europe. In 1947 he formed a Committee for a United States of Europe. In May, 1948 the unofficial Congress on a Uni;ted States: of Europe met i11: Genev.a. to talk of plans for a United States of Eur-0pe. Churchill favors the .formation of a W astern Union~ He said, Hif Erurope i·s to be saved froM infinite misery, and .. indeed from .final · doom there must be this act of faith inthe European family." The fcr11ation of the Western Uni-Orr is also significant becan.is·e the countri€sof Western Europe 'are ready to halt the march of Commun.ism across Europe, As a matter of fact the alliance of the w.es.tern Nations for mutual .asssistanceis a warning to Russia. The formation of the Western U niotr g.ave new hope to the democratic world'. It gave new courage to democratic lead.ers b~ause five nations have shown. that they can cooperate wholeheal'ltedly in the preservation ·of their common in· terests artd princ"iples. Newswe.ek called' the conference of the five nations a· "sensational cooperation." Tjme called the conference the best example of an effort for survival because "old notions of sovereignty were sloughed off, and old jealousies were put aside." The News Review called the formation of' the Western Union without parallel in modern history. No other decision of such importance has been made in. only 9 days. (Plea"< turn t-0 page 31) 11 What is the lesson of the fall of Czech democracy? Why was Czechoslovakia's Democracy Killed? Specific objectives: 1. To understand the importance cif Czechoslovakia_ in Europe 2. To get acquainted with the strug· gles of the Czechs for democracy 3. To understand why the Communists staged a cou;p in Czechoslovakia 4. To get acquainted with the methods employed in staging the coup 5. To und_erstand the si;gnifiCance of the fall of Czech democraey On February 25, 1948 a very happy man stood before 50,000 Czechs gathered at Wenceslaus Square, Prague and announced that President Edouard Ben.es had accepted the will of the people for a new government. The day marked th~ fall of Czech democraey. Why did the Communists kill Czech democracy? How was it killed? What is the significance of the fall of Czech democTacy? Birth of Czech democracy Czech democracy was born in the United States. On October .30, 1918, Thomas Masaryk announced the birth of an independent Czechoslovakia. ThOIUsands of Czechs hailed the announcement. Thousands also thanked President 'Woodrow Wilson for being the godfather of the Czech republic. Czechoslovakia was carved out of the lands that belonged to the Austro-Hun· and about 37 % are engaged in varioul industries. The Czechs are thrifty, hanlworkin,g,. labor-loving and cooperative. They take pride in their handicrafts. Business is mostly done in many villages through th.e community or cooperative enterprises. They are cool-minded, rational an.d highly cultured. They have many accomplishments in art, sciences, education, and literature. Before the outbreak of World War II, Prague, the capital of Bohemia and of Czechoslovakia, was .one of the cultural centers of Europe. Why is Czechoslovakia important? The great Ge.fman Iron Chancellor Bismark, once said: "Whoever is the master of Bohemia is master of Europe. Europe must, therefore, never allow any nation except the Czechs to rule it, since that natiion had no liking for domination." Cz€choslovakia has also been called an island democracy because of its position in central Europe. The country before the Communists took over the government was the 04 cros5road" of central Europe because it served as a j'windowu through which the East and '\Vest Europe could look at each other. The Czechs fought Nazism garian empire before the end o{ World After the formation of the Czech reWar I. It covered an area of 54,244 public, the government had to .solv~ square miles. The population was many of its problems. Among them 15,500,000. The country is ialmost agri- were inflation, unemployment, Ia-nd, reculturally self-sufficient, but it is also forms, and the demand of the German highly industrialized. About 40% of the minority for self-government. The gov·tnhabitants are engaged in agriculture, ernment under the first president, Tho.................................. ____ O•••"•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••oooooooo•o-•oooo.ooo•oooooooooooooooooHO• 12 Current Events Review-July, 1946 mas Masaryk, succeeded in solving !'-Orne of the problems of the country. Inflation was checked. Unemployment was reduced. Land reforms brought iPros.perity to many individuals. One grave prob'em, however, remained unSolv~. This problem that gave too much political trouble was the presence of many Germans in Sud·etenland who wanted to joi~ GermanY:· In 1933 Ado1f. Hitle,r came to .power m Germany. K:riowing the importance of Czechoslovakia in spreading German power to the East, Hitler made use of Konrad Henlein to instigate the Sudeten Germans to ask for self-gofernment. ln · no time the Sudeten Germans' urged by Henlein, agitated for self-.government. In March, 1938 after Hitler had annexed Austria. Czechoslovakia realized the danger of Germany as a neighbor. Hitler support>e.cl the Sudeten Germans' demand for self-,government. President Benes, however, could not find a satisfactory solution to this problem. It seemed that Europe was on the brink of war. A conference was held at Munich on September 12, 1938 by the British Prime .Minister, Neville Chamberlain; the French Premier, Edouard Daladier; the Italian Premier, Benito Mussolini and the German Fuhrer, Adolf Hitler. The conference agreed to dismember or divide Czechoslovakia. President Benes resigned. On March 16, 1939, Emil Hacha, the new President, :accejpted the German occupation of the country. The Czechs fought Communism Czechoslovakia was occupied by the Germans for six years. It was finally liberated by the Russians in May, 1945. Then the exiled government ·of President Benes returned. Czechoslovakia, howWorld Problem ever, paid heavily for this liberation; she lost 50,000 squ.are miles Of territory: Ruthenia was taken by Russia. Elections were held in May, 1946. In those e!ections the Czechs Communists obtained 40 % of the popular votes. The Communist pariy thus became the most powerful party in Czechos'ovakia. The seats in the 300-member parliament were distributed as follows: Communists ·····--···········-···-···· Social Democrats ····-·-··· . National Socialists Catholic People's party ... . Slovaks Rightist ............. . 114 seats 39 seats 55 seah 4.7 seats 45 seats After the elections, the five parties agreed to ~orm an all-party coalition. Klement Gottwald, leader of the Communists, was chosen as Premier. The Czech Communists are nationalists. They love their cou:ntry although they beHeve in Communism. They favor close relations with Riussia for two reasons. First, they believe in the union of all pe~ples speaking the Slavic tongue. Second, they look .up to Russia as their natural protector again~t possible German .aggression. Although the Czech communists want close ties with Russia, they wan.t to preserve their fun-· damental. rights and liberties. They b2lieve in freedom. They want to preserve it. After the elections in 1946 the people had to fight for freedom. Only political parties approved by the government enjoyed political freedom. No individual was al.lowed to form a p<Jlitical party. No individual coruld found a newspaper. Only parties and organization approved by the government enjoyed those rights. Freedom of s1 peech ;and of the pres'S were limited. It was not safe for an individual or the press to crJticize the Russian government. 13 Why did the Communists plan to seize the powers of the government? You may ask the question, \Vhy did t11e Communists seize the powers of the governmc1t since they controlled th~ majotity of the seats. in the coalition government? Her.e are some of the reasons given by different periodicals: ( 1) The Czech Communists· were n:Jt certain that those who voted for f'ommunists candidates in 1946 w-ere real Commltllists. Some of the people voted for Communist candidates because the).' feared a strong Germany. Others voted Communists to· please friends._ (2) 'l;he Socialists were not sincere in cooperating with the Communist-dominated government under Premier Klement Gott"\>,rald. The Sociali~ts· could net forgr,~ -what ha.flpened to the Socialist parties in Rumania, Hungary, .and Poland. The non-cooperation of the Socialists frightened the Czech Communists. (3) A.lthough the majority of the Czechs were interested in the Mar.0 hall Plan because th<-y thought it meant th.? ('Cn!"!0mic recovery of the country, Cz.echoslovakia rejected an invitation to attend fhe Paris conference Russia was responsible for this rej.ection, .and f-or this interference, Russia was hated by the Czechs who favored the Marshall Plan. ( 4) The Communi.sts feared the growing force of the Opposition. Fearing that they might not win in the May, 1948 elections, they did something to preverut the holding of a free ebction. '(5) Czechoslo~akia had a very larg~ trade with Western Europe. Russi.~ wanted to g<ot the benefit of the trade with Gzechoslovakia. (6) Russia· wantlJl'ogre::-s ·of the 'Vestern European na .... tions in their economic recovery under the Marshall Plan. How did the Communists seize the powers .of the government? The world was sho~ked by the speed of the seizure of the powers of the Czech government by the Communists. It took the Communists only about half a week to kill Czech democracy. How did they do this? First, the Communists through the usuD.l "infiltration" method did three things: (1) they secured for labor organizations the right ·to join ~he government in making political decisions. Labor organizations thus acquired a right to take part in the activities of the gov· ernment. (2) The Communist succeeded in "communizing" the police. (3) ·'ac· ti:on committees., were organized. Secondly, on F~bruary 13, 1948 the non-CommuniSt parties in the coalition governinent demanded that the Minister of the Interior, Vaclav Nosek, recall th.:? Comm!llnists whom he had appointed in key positions in rthe government. Nosek refused. The 12 anti-Communists ministers presented their resignation. A delegation of workers demanded that President Benes accept their resignation, but President Benes refused. Thirdly, the Minister of the Interior then annaunced that a "'plot has been discovered" against the governrD.ent. This classic and familiar technique of Communism Hnked certa'in foreign pow· ers in ~he overthrow of the government. Fin.ally, the coup was made. On February 22 "action cornmitt~es" went into ed. to close the "window" through which action. Truckloads of armed policemen the peoples of the countries that lie be· seized op;oos'ition leaders, postponed the hind the "Iron Curt~in'" learn of th.2. se~'5ion of the parliament, opposition 14 Current Events Re,•iew-Ju)y, 1948 newspapers were seized, opposiVon newspaper offices were closed, min; strics :and ,government offices were oi.oopied by Commun:sts. Then on February 25, 1948 President Ben~s was forced to sign a document acc£1 pting the new Cabinet of Premier Klement Gottwald, the leader cf the Co~munist. Upon signing the dqcument, President Benes said: "This government wiU have only evil results." President Benes knew that the triumph of the Communists would kill democracy i·n Czechoslovalda. Later President Benes resigned. Czech democracy was killed twice Cezchoslovakia, the "window" and the "crossroad'' of central Europe lost hn frE.edom twice in 10 years. !'1 1938 Adoif Hitler killed Czech democracy by force of arms. In 1948 the Comrnunists <rave the death blow to Czech dcmocrac~· ';hrough the usual and familiar Cominunist techniques: ( 1) discovery of a Plot to overthrow the go.vernment, (2) foreign interfnence in the intern-al affairs of the ,government, ( 3) infiltration into Jcey positions in the government, (4) control of labor unions, (5) cOntrol of the police, (6) elimination ·of opposition parties, anc! (7) "action committee" moves. What is the signifiwnce of the fall of Czech democr.acy? Ciech democracy was killed inten-· tionally in .order to bring the country under the ulron Curtain". Russia wanted to prevent Czechoslovakia from becoming interested in the Marshall Plan. The death of Czech democracy is a warning to all democratic countri·es of the world. Albion Ross writing in the International News ~ew York Times said: 11 What happened and is ha.ppening here ( Czehoslovakia) could come again in any state where ,:l consider.able Ctnnmunist party has .Eiucceeded i;,. getting control of the in-~ struments of power." Fe!ix Morley of the New.week commentied thait the Communist techniques must be met if we want to save our freedom. Bertrand Jouvenal writiry~· 'in 'Human Ewn.ts saii that tbe "Subjection of the people must be the w·ork of the people themselves." Exercises to Develop Thinking 1. Explain in your own words the importance of Czechoslovakia. 2. Do you think the Czech Communist can love freedom and at the .S"a.me time embrace Communi·sm? Why? 3. Go over the reasons why the Communists seized the powers of the g')Vernment. Do you think the Communist:. were justified in seizing the powers r,f the government? ·Why? 4. - Explain the different method useci by the Communists in seizing the power:.; of the government. Why is the control of the police important? 5 Do you think the Nazi fifth column is more effective than the Ru!;sian method of controlling the ,police and the infiltration technique? Why? 6. Do you believe in the statement of Albion Ross? Why? 7. Wl;at is the lesson of th• fall of Czech democracy? References 1. Gedye, ·G. E. R. "Behind the Stru.ggle :for Cze_choslovakL;i," Th'3 .Nat\on, Vol. 166, No. 9 (February 28 1948) pp. 230-232. 2. Hindus, Maurice. "Czechos1ovakia Challenges the Big Two," Collier's, Vol. 116, No. 24 (December '15, 1945) pp. 17, 34, 36. (Please turn to 1xi;ge 22) 15 What does the Summary r.eveal? What does the U. S. Summary of SovietAmerican Issues Reveal? Specific objiectiv.es: 1. To understand the background of the international issues on Soviet-American relations 2. To know why Russia refuses to cooperate in the solution of these i.ssues Background of the news settlement of the differences between the United States and Rllssia. Stalin supported the points given by WaJ,lace. In reply to the "open letter" from Henry Wallace the United States Department issued the background of in· ternational issues. The background follows: In May, 1948 informal conversation• Reduction ,of Armaments between Walter Bedell Smith, U. S. Ambassador to Moscow and Soviet Foreign Min·ister V. F. Molotov took place. Smith told Molotov that neither the economic program for the 16 European countries nor the military program of United States is a threat to the Soviet Union. Smith further told Molotov that a. po9Sible settlement of the differences between Russia and the United States might yet be reached. Molotov on the other hand, blamed the United States .for the unse:ttled peace problems of the world. He disclosed, however, that Russia would like to discuss the settlement of the peace problems with the United States. Smith gave a tart rebuttal to Molotov's charge that the Uittted States is responsible for everything that is wrong with the world. He then sent to the United States the texts of the Smith-Molotov conversation.::i. Then a ray of peace appeared. Americans read the Smith-Molotov conversations eagerly, hopefully. The United States Department, however, was cautious of the Russian peace offensive. Henry Wallace wrote an open letter to Stalin giving the basis for a possible The problem of the regulation of conventional armaments was discussed in the 1946 General Assembly of the United Nations, and has since been under consideration by the Oommi·ssion for Conventional Armaments of the Security Council. Atomic Energy In the field of atomic energy, 3.greement on an effective plan for international control has so far been blocked by ,the Soviet Union. The presentation of the third report of the commission marks the recognition of a.n impasse which has existed practically since the negotiations began almost two years and 220 meetings ago. Fourteen of the 17 nations which are now or have been represented on the commission are a-· greed on the ·basic and indispensable requirement of an international control plan; the Soviet Union, Poland, and the Ukraine have been the only members of the commission to disagree. Despite its unceasing efforts, the commission has now been forced .to declare that: ''It haos been unable to secure the agreement of the Soviet Union to even. ••••&0••••••••••••••••••••••••Ho•uoo&0p•&0•••••• •••••OOHO••••••••••••••••••••••••••H••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• J6 Current Events Review-July, l 94c1 those elements of effective control con- Far Eastern Commission that a prelimsidered essential from the technical ·inary conference be held to discuss a point of view, let alone their acceptance of the nature and extenit of participation in the world commu.nity required of all nations in thi-s field by the first and second reports -of the Atomic Energy Commission." In this situation, the commission has concluded that for the present no useful purpose could be served by carrying on negotiations at the commission le~el and has referred the whole problem to the Security Council with a recommendation that it be forwarded to the General Assembly. The conclusion that further work a.t the commission level would be futite does not mean that the efforts to achieve internaitional control of atomic energy are to be terminated, but it does. mean that the .commission has recognized that factors ,necessary to bring about agree .. ment on an educational system for the inte!'national control of atomic energy are outside the competence of the commission. The United Nations is still confronted ·with the problem of international control of atomic energy and the United States Govevnment is still read}I peace trea.ty for Japan, the voting procedure of such a conference to be by tVJ"O-thirds majority. Eight ·states indicated general agreement to the proposal. .The Sovif!t Union held that the peace treaty problems should be considered by the Council of Fo:ceign Ministers, composed in this insrtance of the United States~ the United Kingdom, China and Russia. China proposed that the peace treat.y be considered by a conference of the eleven Far Eastern Commission countries and that decisions be taken by a majority which must include the' four powers -named above. So far it has been impossible ,to resolve the conflict between these widely dirfferent co:ncepts as to the basis on which the Japanese peace treaty conference c;hould be convened. Evacuation 'Of Troops from China As c. f March 31, 1948, there \\·t"'1·e sta,... t.ioned in 'Jhina, of t.1 ... armed fo\'C~s o! the United States, 1,496 army personnel aind 4,125 navy and marine personnel. to participate in genuinely effective These forces •emain in China at the r~ control. German Peace Settlement By common agreement the question of a German peace settlement is one for the Council of Foreign Ministers to settle. The council has held two long meetings devoted to this subject. Soviet opposition to virtually every proposition put forward by the United States, Great Brita.in, and France has thus far blocked all progress on this question. quest of the National Goverm:p.ent. Evacuatioon of Troops from K.orea With respect to the suggestion that the United States and the Soviet occupation £01·ces be withdrawn. from Korea, tbe United Nation·s General Assembly, by resolution of November 14, 1947 recommended a plan for the early achievement of Korean independence, to be followed promptly by the withdrawal of all i'oreign armed forces. frapanese Peace Settlement The General Assembly constituted a In July, 1947, the United States pro- United Nations commissi~n to assist in posed to the 10 other members of the this program. The Ukrame was elected "••••••••••••••••••o•••••• ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••~ ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• World Problem 17 she refused to S£-rve. The U.S.S.R. par:ticipated in the final Conference on denied the United Nations commission entry into the northern. zone of Korea. It has not only refused to collaborate in any way in,. the .implementation of the United Jfations plan but has attempted to proceed unilaterally· with a plan of its own which threatens to lead to a civil war among the Korean ·themselves. Respect for National Soveneignty and Noninterference in Domestic Affairs Trade and Employment held in H:i.vana. Cuba, from November, 1947 to March, 1948. This conference agreed upon the ch~rter for an International Trade Organization, one of the main purpose.:; of which is to eliminate all forms of discr.imination .in -internaitional trade. The Snviret Government declined to participate in either -Of these meeti•ngs. Assistance to WarDevastated Oountries The aid being ex~ended by the United States to other countries on a worldThe facts bearing on ·this subject are wide scale, through both the United too Voluminous for recapitulation here. The actions and policjes of the two governments· in this report are a matter of public record; ithey speak for themiielves·. Military Bases The policy of the United States in this respect has been govei--ned 1,y the unanimous resolution .of the United Nations General Assembly on December 14. 1946, which makes the retention of armed forces on the te!"ritories of members co.nditione.1 upon the freely and ~pubicly expr~ss~ con."lent of such members. In accordance with article 103 of the Charter, the United States has made it 'l. Nations channels and others, should be a1' ndequate answer to this subejct. In the case of the European RecOvery Program, in which the U.S.S.R. declined to participate, the proposal to create a new organization came from the pa: ti. cipating European countries. Human Rights The United Nations tu1·oed to the question of human l'ights as one of its first tasks. In this field, its work is we:f advanced. The Human Rights 0.Jmmission, under the chi;i.irmanship of Mrs. Eleanor Roosevelt, may sho,rtly recommend a draft declaration and covenant practice to i•egister with the United on human rights to .the Economic and Nation.s the instruJl)ents of agreements. Social Council and to the General AssemIt is of inetrest to note that the United bly_ Since Ooth the .U.S.S.R. and the States has proposed in the Security United' States are 8.ctive members of the Council that the United Nations military force have unlimited rights of passage and rights to use bases wherever located. 'l. hl' U; S.S. R. has rejected this pro pO,sal. lnternatiorna/ Trad,e The representatives of 23 countries attended the session of the preparatory committee for the United Nations Conference on Trade and Employment which \Vas held in Geneva in the summer of 1'8 Humn-.1 Right::! C.on1mission, it is difficult to see how this matt.f~r could be advanced In any other forum. It lies in the nature of this subject that it is imminently a multilateral and inte:mational probiem nnd both the Soviet Union and the United. States have, in the Unite<.~ Nations c.Jmmission, a wholly adequate forum in which to put forward their views. (Special Release by the United States Information Service) (Pleasi.~ turn to page 31) Current Events Review-.luly, 1948 Will Russia Back Up Its Peace Offensives w.ith Concrete and Specific Peace Actions? ( 'l'n1s section which gives the opinions of the press on current international events is intended to. provide rnateria'.s for class discussion. It is hoped that the class will learn how to evaluate ~hese op1mons. The opinions in this section are not necessarily those of the Cu'r'Tent Ei,•e-nts Reuiew) The publication of the Smith-Molotov conversations and subsequent_ statements by Secretary of State Marshall and President Truman on the peace offensive of Russia continue ta arouse editorial comments in the Amei-ican press. The editorials have strongly affirmed tht! peaceful hopes of the American people, but at the same time many ,papers· have cautioned against the lullina: effects of what, they said, may be only propaganda mcves by the Russians. American papers urge that Russia back up her peace offensive with concrete peace action:::;. Russia must show that she desires peace by specific actions. America must Continue to be on Guard The exchange of notes between Ru~sia end the United States may lead to a new disussion for the purpose of settling the differences between the United States and Russia. "If Soviet Russia 'is ready to make concrete proposals for an alleviation of the international situation, wrote the New York Times, "there is a good chance that disoossions may lead to something ... But whether the Soviets are r.ea.lly ready to make such pro"Posals remain to be seen." Foreign Affairs The Russian press 'has delibe ·:ai,ety n:;iinepresented the A:mericar peQple ?.S "suing for peace." The Russian government has tried to convey the. impression that the United States is wllling to surrender its principles and betray her friends. "Certai'l)ly, the United States and the rest of the western world will have to be more on. their guard in any future <lea.lings with Russia than they were .at Teheran, Yalta, or Potsdam." Russia has Misca/c,ulated the Facts The disaussions of the Russian peace offensives are encouraging. They show that the door for peaceful settlement of world peace jlJroblems is still open - a small, iron-grated door through the wall of Russian censorships. ''There is not great canJse for ch"eer in Russia's annou·nced willinigness for more formal discussion," wrote the Denver Pos~. "There are many reasons why Russia -should be agreeable to discussions looking to a settlement with the Western deDJ.OCracies. The Kremlin obviously has miscalculated the recovery power of Western Europe .• The Communist defeats ' in France and· Italy, must have awakened the Kremlin sharply to the inner strength of the democratic 'idea . . . These factors should incline. the United States toward the fullest caution in accejpting peace prO"' fess.ions from Rus·sia." Has Russia Learned a Lesson? Many newspapers have asked the question: Has Russia learned a lesson in her .expansion in Europe? The Wash19 ing'brm News commented: "On thE! record of Russia's past performance and on Molotov'·s current statement in justification of Soviet aggression, it is im.possible to build much hope. But there is a chance, how.ever slight, thS.t Russia has learned the lesson that aggressfon does not pay in the end and wants to cooperate for a just peace. We must be alert on the Moscow broadcast&." What Must Russfo. Do? If the Russians want a settlement of the problems of the peace of the world, it is essential that she must meet certain requirements. According to the Clev:eland Plain Dealer, the minimum requirements :are: "First, Russia must abandon her ideological war against the nonCommunist world. Secondly, Russia must agree to an effective program for the control of atomic .weapons, involving the right of inspection by an agency of the United N ati-ons and· elimination of the veto over steps taken to deal with violations. We doubt. whether Russia would ever meet these requirements as lonrt" as it has a ;police state form of government dominated by the Politburo. (Political Information Rureau). Will Russia do the Following Peace Actions? The American people would welcome diplomatic talks between the United Statesi and Russia looking toward a settlement of the many differences betw'een the two powers. They shoU.ld, however adopt a seeing-is-believing attitude toward the discussion proposal announced from Mosoow. "Unless Russia is willin1 g to honor agreements already made, there is no use of either new negotiations or new agreements, or much chance for 20 peace.') The New York Times challenges R1ussia to do the following: 1. Under the Atlantic Charter Russia pledged itself to eschew all aggrandizements, territorial or other; this requires that Russia halt its policy of expansion and release from bondage the ten EastEuropean natic;ms it has subjugated. 2. Under the agreements of Moscow, Teheran, and Yalta, Russia pledtged itself to act in cooperation with Western powers to restore democracy and popular sover.e"ignty in liberal Europe through free and unfettered elections; this requires that Russia stop im.'pos'ing Communist puppet regimes on other nations and permit the people to choose the form of government iunder which they will live. 3. Under the Pot:dam Agreement, Russia pledged itself to treat Germany as a single unit to leave Germany sufficient resources to enable it to live without foreign assistance, and to leave final disposition of a ·1 territorial ques~ tions to the peace settlement; this requires that Russia nullify iits territorial annexations of German territorY, stop Sovietization and exploitation if its oc~ cupation :z;ones, and pool all German resources to feed the Germans, thereby he\ping to lift that burden from American banks·. 4. Finally, under the U.N. Charter Russia p ~edg.ed itself to refrain from the use or threat of force and to carry out the United .Nations decisions; this requires that Russia stop fomenting civil war in Greece and China, and at the very least refrain from obstructing U. N. bodies from carrying ·out their work." Current Events Review-July, 1948 ls the Oommunist Near East Drive a Failure? What is the real danger? Russia's efforts to expand in the Near E1ast by ~·preading Communist doctrine and inspir:.ng rev.o:ution have failed, and there is little danger of "immediate Communist control" in this area without outr'ight Soviet inviasion, ·a subcommittee of the Hou~e fore:gn affairs committee reported Thursday. The subcommittee report, titled ucommunism in the Near East," is the second in a series of :studies of the Communist movement in fore:'.gn countries issued as suppplements ~o the basic report, "The Strategy and· Tactics of World Communism", issued on March 1. "The real danger to the Near East comes from the physical proximity of the Soviet Union and the Red Anny particularly to the perimeter states of Iran and Turkey about which especial anxiety must be felt, and not from local Communist activity", the report said. "For on!y this army can achieve the desired results within •the allotted period of time and Soviet diplomacy is bending every effort to move it into the area." Str.ong anti-Communist Sentiment "Numerous sbud:es and re-evaluations of the area all show substantially the same thing, that outside of Iran and possibly Egypt there has been no dangerous increase in the effectiveness of subversive propaganda or in the numbers of members and sympathizers of radical parties except for a brief per'Lod duriJ1g the war. H is in the nature of a testimonial to the strbng antiForeign Affairs Communist sientiments of the peopie that numerous situations, both spontaneous and contrived, have created so little genui.ne revolutionary feeling .... uin almost all cases the desire of the people is ml!rely for .a measure of reform within the re,gular governmentaJ framework of the various countries, aiid it is not related to or necessarily inspired by any foreigrl ideology." The abortive Soviet effort to break off Iranian Azerbaijan from the rest of the na:tion was mere~y the modern manifestation of the old Czarist imperialist drive toward the Persian Gulf, attempted by .new tactics, and intensified by the desire for oil, the report said. It cited detailed evidence to prove that the North Iranian "revolt'' was carried out by Soviet citizens who infiltrated into Iran, and that it lacked popular support, as proved by complete collapse of the separatist movement. Tudeh, the Iranian Copimunist Party, has a hard core of only 50,000 mEmbers, according to the study. 'Dhe subcommittee warned, however, that the dangers to Iran have been "averted only temporarily'', since Russian goals remain unchanged. Power Politics T.he report also charged that Russia's complete reversal of her historic P.alestine policy from .one of the often .. proclaimed .and dogmatic -anti-Zionism to the support of part'ition in the United Nations was motivated entirely by power politics. It ea.id: 21 "The pro-partition Vote of the U.S.S.R. and her satellites was an integral part of Communist strategy. and was intended specifically to create in the near Ea.st: "(1). A -state of chaos or in.stability that would impel the British to accelerate their withdrawal from the area, hamper American development of oi·l resd\lrces with i·ts ponderable effect on the Marshall Pfan, and make i,t easy f.or Moscow to infiltrate agents into Palestine either directly and legally, should the Seourity Coun~il decide to send in an a:ftned fdrce to maintain order, or indirectly and secretly iamong the 'immigrants. that come from Europe. "(2). Establishment of a precedent for the principle of partition, to be invoked again in behalf of the Kurds and Azerbaijanis. ult is clear that U.S.S.R. policy on Palestine is not based on any emotional considerations. Lt is no more pro-Zionist than it i-s anti-Arab. If a negative vote on partition, or abstention, had offered the promise of speedier ~ucce'.s for Soviet plans in ithe Near East, that vote would have been delivered. Should the .time come when an u11ambiguous pro-Arab. stand wi.U serve a useful purpose, that stand will .be taken and it will have an enthusiastic ally in 'its Palestine Communist parties." Czech democracy (Continued from ,•JG.g~-: 15) 3. Jouvenal Bertrand. "The 1\:;:!1-. niques of CommunLm," Human Eve1~ts, Vol. V, No. 13 (March 31, 1948) pp. J. lV. 4 .. Khon, Hans. 0 Democracy in the Soviet Orbit: Czechoslovakla1s Strmggle," Current H~tfJ1'y, Vol. 14, No. 78 (February, 1948) pp. 67-70. 22 The Communist Party Palestine tac~ tics have been to "play both ends against the midlle~ thr-ough develqping separate· Arab and J ewi'sh groups, with com:inon ant'j-BrHi,sh and anti-Americari tendencies, l>ut free to avoid the basic question of Arab-Jewish relations, the study pointed out. The report gives major attention t() Communist activi.ties in Iran, Iraq, Syria a.nd Lebanon, Egypt, and Palestine. In Turkey, Transjordan, Saudi Arabia, the Yemen, arid the smaller .countries ther~ is little or nO Communist activitf, it said. ChaiTman of the :Subcommittee is Mrs. Frances P. Bolton, Republican of Ohl-o. The group includes three other Republicans and two Democrats. It made· a first ha.nd ~tudies of the politioal situation in the Near East and Europe last year. Study Helps 1. What is the Near East?i 2. Why is Russia interested in the Near Ea.st? 3. What is the real danger in the Near Ea~t? 4. Why did Russia change her policy in Palestine? 5. Do you really think the Communist drive in the Near East failed? Why? 5. "Red ~etriayal in Czechoslov.a.ki.a," No:ms Reyiew, Vol. 166, No. 9 (Fe)>ruary 28, 1948) pp. 230-232. 6. Ross, Albion, ''Muscovites Now Rule the Czechoslovak State." The New Y<>rk Tim•s, March 21, 1948, p. ES. 7. "What Happened in Nows Republic, Vol. 118, (March, 1948) ,pp. 12-13. Prague,'' No. 10, Current Events Review-July, 1948 Science Marches On Is Germ Control in Homes Pos~ible? A recent discovery was announced by the two scientists of the University of CDlicago. According to the results of their:" experiments, airborne diseases are killed when they are exposed to a solution of table salt at a relative humidity of 50%. What is the mea.ning of this finding? apetites? This was the question whleh Dr. E. M. Scott of the University of Pittsburgh tried to answer when he conducted an experiment on rats. He p1,&t sevel'&l rats in cages. tnside these cages, he also put various kinds of foods. ·He found out that rats differ in selecting food properly even if the en-vironmental condi.tions are the same. The scientist found out that the rats under experimentation failed to select The scientists are agreed that if we their fooci on the basis of apetite alone. control the humidity of air in our homes, schools, factories, and other buildings, the spread of airborne diseases such as pneumonia, scarlet fever, ''strep throat'' may be checked. A New Project to Bring l(J "Lost World" t.o Civilization A new projeCt has been blueprinted by the UNESCO. It is a scientific project designed to exp1CJre the so-cal1ed Amazonian hinterland. This hinterland is located in Brazil. It is a territOry lost to the world for .mairry decades. The proposed project will lead to the exploration of the "lost world'' to find out its natural wealth - medicinal drugs, natural rubber, sugar,, and other product!~. n is believed that the exploration of the Amazo.piQ.n hinterland .may lead to the discovery of new lands for the settlement of Europe's 600,000 displaced persons. Can Rats Select their Food on the Basis of Apetite? Perhaps you have seen rats eating their food behind boxes. PerQ.aps you have seen them eating behind files of old newspapers. Do you thirik rats can select their food on the basis of their World Problem There were rats whO selected the. proper • food, but the majority of the rats. dilil not know the correct food. Does Radio Affect Farming? During the second year of the Atomic Age, scientists were busily engaged in the discovery of the peacetime · uses of atomic energy. A ·French sciec.tist -recently informed the French Academy of Sciences that radio affects farming. He conducte.d experiments in which salts with radio-active elements treated several kinds of seeds. After months of experimentation, he found that seedS treated with salts of radio-active elements increased their yields. Shall We Say Goad-by to Odor? Observe your kitchen. At•e there some oppressive odors as a result of your cooking activities? Now ~eience has. come to oor aid by killing these oppressive odors. How is it done? A generator called ozone generate!' has been invented. The machine is as large as an ordinary radio table. The ozone generator discharges 15,000 volts of man-made "sheet lightning". This inanmade "sheet of lighti:iing" keeps ·the air 23 in the kitchen fresh because the ozone not? You have read accounts of reproduced from the oxygen keeps the cent earthquake's in Iloilo? Would you smell of cooking from the kitchen. like to· find out how man-made earthInsight Has Made Science (to) Promise a Normal Li/ e f.o the H andicapp.ed World War II has inspired scientists to wOrk harder on plans to ''rehabilitate and re-train men to bridge the gap from bed to job." Col. Howard A. Rusk, a physician in the Armed Forces of the United States, drew up e. plan for the ''rehabiJi.tation and re-training" of mer1 confined in the hospitals as a result of injuries sustained dudng :he w'ar. He showed by statistics that most of the injured men spent 10% of their time in pain and 90% in boredom. Convalescent centers were immediately established by ord_p,r of the government. quakes are proving benefic'ial to engineers? Scientists have invented new instruments for recording earthquake. 'This instrument are partly the outcome of a natural earthquakes and man-made earthquakes. What is meant by manmade earthquake? Engineers create earthquakes by setting off a charge of dynamite. Then instruments record the result of the explosion. Wh-a.t does the engineer discover? '{=!e finds out the rock composition of the dynamited hill or ground. What are the practical values of the mnn-made earthquakes? Supposing an engi.nneer wants to build a road through a hill. He must decide whether he will build the road through the hill or around In these centers the most important the hill. He sets o.ff a. charge of dynapoint stressed was ambula.tion or g~tting the patient up on his feet as soon as possible. From the beginning, the scientists in charge of the rehabilitation and re-training of men recognized that the job requires two things: (1) giving the patient an artificial hand or leg Vv"ith a handsome cover made of leather and (2) teaching the patient how to use the devise for the "essential business of living'' and .for purposes of "holding down a, job." The purposes outlined for the "rehabilitation 8Ald re-training'• of the handicapped have been accompli~shed in the first experimental hospitals. Now, the handicapped are promised ~horter stay in hospitals. The time spent in '•boredom'' has been considerably reduced. Thanks to the insight and courage of a man. Man-made Earthquakes Are very Useful! You have seen earthquakes, have you 24 mite. Then he. looks at. the seismog1·aph record. If he finds that the seismograph records show the presence of too many rooks, in order to spend less, he would build the road around the hill. Removing the rock would cost him more. Man-made earthquakes are being used in what · other ways? 1. Now, engineers are using man-made eal'thquakes to determine the foundation of a building. 2. Natural subt~rranean rock pockets cain be discovered. W)ith this discovery> engineers can tell whether a town ought to have a water supply or nat. 3. By using man-made earthquakes, geo~ogists can locate geological formations that might contain oil. They can also determine the depths of glaciers. 4. Architects are studying how earthquake-proof buildings can be constructed. 5. MeteorolO'gists can now ascertain the start of a new-born hurricane. Current Events Re••lew-July, 1948 Significant World ISRAEL Birth of a new nation Israel was born on May 17, 1948. The lsraelite Declaration of Independence was proclaimed in a simple ceremony by Israel's Premier, David Ben-Gurion. Israel occupies about one-half of modern Palestine. The .Jewish community numbers about 600,000. Most of the members of the Jewish community are immigraiys from Europe. \The resou1·cesr of the new nation consist of 3,100 industrial enterprises and about 265 agricultural settlements. During the past 50 years the .Jews have pushed the desert back. By means of irrigatio.n new lands have been put to cultivation. The new state has a provisional government consisting of 37 .Jewish leaders of different political leanings. There are 13 Cabinet ministers who perform the executive functions. What is the significance of the news? The birth of the new state of Israel was accompanied by four· historical events. First, the British rule of Palestine came to an end after 25 years of difticult administration. Second, the United States recognized the new state 2t minutes after the proclamation of the Israelite independence. Third, the much-publicised Arab invasion was begun by the dropping of bombs. Fourth, News Roundup KOREA Two governments for the Hermit Kingdom Korea, the land of the "Morning Calm" and the ''Hermit Kingdom," had Us first free election during its 4,000 years of existence. Elections ":Vere held in the Ameri-can zone of occupation. Russia boycotted the election ordered by the United Nations. Ei.ght million voters caiSt their ballots to elect.. the members of the national. assembly for an inde_. pendent Korea. Eighty-five percent of the voters took courage in casting their ballots in .spite of Russian int,im~dation. 290 delegatee were elected to the national assembly. The party headed by Dr. Syngham Rhee won the elections. The party that ..secured the majority of the seats i.n the Assembly is . called The National Society for the Rapid Realiza ... ti an of Koree.n Independence. What is the significance of the news? The election in Korea .Ls 'lilignificant for., two reasons. First, the peoples of Southern Korea had their first taste of election during thtir 4 ;ooo years of e.xistence. Second, Korea has been definitely split into two divisions: (1) Southern Kor.ea where the eiectLOns were ·held and (2)1 N orthel'n Korea where the Russians have approved a coni:titution for ihe aJl. Korea People's Republic, another ''RUB· sLan puppet. •1 The question that i·emains is: When will Korea get her indepenthe beginning of Arab-Jewish conflict dence? was definitely marked. AUSTRIA The recognition of the new state of Israel by Russia may follow. If the new state is recognized by Rus&ia, there might be peace in Palestine. The Arabs might finally give up the civil war. World Problen>., Wanted: Protection from Communism A recent survey conducted by experts among the people of Austria shows ttiat 25 the majority want oontbnued occupation of the country by the Western Allied occupation troops. Two reasdns have (2) inefficiency in the goyernment; (3) political corruption _ i,n the government; (4) combatting Communism and Soviet been given for the continuatio..'"l or the infiltration into China, and ( 5) unioccupation. First, the Austrian.s fear the revi'\"al of the Nazi regime. Second, the presence of the Western Allied occupation troops would balk emy attempt of the Communist to1 stage a coup. 'What is the significance of the news? ·The survey iShows that the majority of the people in Austria prefer continued occupation of the country to outright withd1awal of all occupation forces. They believe that the Communi.sts would seize the powers of the government aftei:: the withdrawal of all occupation forces. It is important to remember that Russia considers Au.stria as an important link in the exten~on of Russian power in Central Europe. CHINA N,ew ref or ms? China's first constitutional governm~nt is now determined to solve the proplems of China by introducing reforms. President Chiang Kai-shek and Prime Minister Wong Wen-hao have pledged fica.tion of the country. Unless these objective are attained the new constitut,onal government in China cannot be truly stable. INDO..CHINA Two governments lndo-Ohlna, scene of ~lemated war between the French forces and the Vietnamase, has now two rival governments. The first is the Vietnamese government headed by President H-0 Chi Minh. The Vietnames&- Republic has been fighting the F1·ench forces for two years. The.-. Vietnamese believes that their. Republic -s supported by the majority of the people. The second is the "Provisional Cenw tral Vietnamese Government." Esta,.. bUshed only recen.itly with French Lieu .. temmt General Nguyen Van Xuan as Premier, thi.s government claims that it i\S the real government of the Vietnamese. It claims a1so th31t it has sovereignty over Tonkitn, Annam, and Cochin-Ghina. to make China strong and efficient. What is the significance of the ne'ws? The new Preside_nt has promised to introduce reform.s in order to make the Kuomintang efficient. Th'.e Prime Minister has promised to raise the living standards of the Chinese. What is the significance qj the news? The new constitutional government, the first one i.n the long history of China, hopes to make a new China. The pro~ blems of the new gov~rnment are: (1) solution of the economic problems of the country through the control o'f inflation; 26 The creaUon of the new ·government~ the Xuan government, is a pat t of the scheme to weaken the Vietnani. Repub! \~ ':'-f President Ho Chi Mir.h. The stalemate bet.ween the Vietnamese and the French forces for the last two yvar.s has compelled the French forces ~o create the "Provisional Government." Through thls government, and with the help of Bao Dai, the former emperor of Annam, the F'rench hope to weaken the strang hold of the Vietnam Republic ori the people. Current Events Review-July, 1948 GERMANY Divided Germany The deci3ion of the Western Allied Power - Britain, the United States, and France - to unite their zones of occupation formally brings the division of Germany into two. The first divisiOn will be the R~sian zone of occupation. The second dh·isiion will l>e the Western zone of occupation. The plan for the union of the British, French; and Americ4n zones of occupation has been a stow, gradual, and certain process. .What is the significance of the news? In 1947 the Bizonia was started when the British and American zones of. occupation were united. During the same. years efforts were exerted to make France join the union. France has fi.nally consented to it.he formation of the Trizonia. lrhe union of the three WeRtern zones of occupation i·n Germany has a three-fold significan'ce. First, Russia will realize her dream ef communizing her zone of occupation. Writers predict that the Iron Curtain will finally descend on Eastern Germany. Second, the decision to unite the three democratic zones of occupation will hasten th~ solution of ·the economic problems Of Germany. The unilon of the three 'Zones of occupation will pave the way for the success of the Marshall Plan for Europe. Third, most wtLters, however, believe tha;t a partitioned Germa..ny is a poor substitute for a united Germany. JAPAN Should japan be 1allowed to reoover? no,t be allowed to recover economically. There are also those who believe that Japan should be allowed to recover to ease the expenses of the Ameri.can people for the maintenance of the America~. forces of occupation. The Johnson Committee senit to Japan to study the problems of Japanese recovery has recently submitted its report. The Committee favors industrial recovery for Japan as an essential condition of peace in the Far Ea.st. What is the significance of the news-? The report shows that p:µbli.c opinion is gradually changing in favor of the industrial recovery for Jil.pan~ The majority of the Americans look upon this as a means to reduoe the expenses of the American forces of occupation in Japan. China, through President Chia..ng Kai-shek, and Britain, through Foreign Secretary Bevin, are also in favor of the industrial recovery of Japan. It is also believed that a Self-supporting Japan is an essential prerequisite to a lasting peace in the Orient. BENELUX UNION Testing ground The Benelux Unio.n composed of the Netherlands 1 Belgium and Luxembourg, has set up a sort of economic union. This includes customs union. A committee was sent by the U.S. House of Representatives to study the Benelux Uni OJ). The committee has recently submitted Hs report. The report pointed out the Benelux oou.ntries are moving toward economic union by carefully designed stages in order to avoid; as far as possible, the The question of Japanese recove!-'Y "tr&n:Sitional costs" of economic readhas been debated many times. There justment. ''This policy is sound so long a?e those who believe that Japan should as it is not used to forestall, peririanentInternational News 27 Jy, the policy of change that needs to take place," the group sa.id. According to the report, the establishment 0£ either a European customs union or of several regional unions will be of little consequence i·n building a truly continental economy unless •they are parts of a full economic union -which will permit the minimum restriction to the movement of labor and capital among the participating countries. What is the significance of the news? The experiences of the Benelux countries are receiving greater attention among democratic countries. It is believed that ithe experiments going on in the Benelux countries on the economic and customs union will be the testing ground for the possible adoption of a customs union for the 16 Marshan countries. The report said: "Any considerable pr-ogress toward economic union will, in fact, result in a parallel degree of political federation regardless of whether or not a formal federation is established." INDIA Are the Communists boring inio India? The new Dominion of I·ndia has taken measures to halt the appearance of communism in India. Several Communist leaders have been arrested. The Communist par:ty and its activities have been banned. Investigartions have shown that the immediate Communist objective is to estalbish a ''Popular Front'' with the Indian Socialists who recently severed their alliance wiith the ruling Congress Party in order to have a freer hand in their advocacy of economic and social reforms. What is the significance of the news? The' Communist Party of India with its 80,000 members is proving so disturb28 ing a.n element to the 299'920,000 nonCommunist Hindus that rt.he authorities feel compelled to take strong measures to curb the party's seditious actiVities. The prohibition of Communist aetivitles show that' the new Dominion of India is .not exempt from the Red peril which manifests itself literally on a world-widt scale. An editorial of the Dallas Morning News said: "Across {he whole face of Asia, Rus..sian Communism is on the march; RusSia,ns are training and backing Chinese Comrilunists in their civil war. Recently they u-sed te!·roristic raids -to violate Chinese aerial jurisdiction. Elsewhere in the Orient, the Russians use cheaper means to gain their ends. They are boring into India.'' THE UNITED STATES Expanding World .Trade "An expanding world trade is a primary objective of the U. S. foreign economic.policy," Treasury Secretary Snyder said. According to him, the latest survey shows that world trade balances during the last half century, especially in the United States, continental Europe, and Latin America, have been shifting. The most significant shifts occurred in the last ten yearS1. The U. S. e..xports, · for instance, rose from 14 to -35 per cent of the world trade, while her share of world imports rose only to 3 per cent. Last year, the U.S. annual world trade surplus was 20 times that of 1938." What. is the significance of the news? "It has been and is the desire of the United States;'' said Snyder ''to help deserving countries. But we must emphasize that our resources have a definite limitation. Moreover, we have incurred an enormous debt. We are continuing tQ (Please-turn to page 32) Curre1>t Events Review-July, 1948 The Philippines and the World An Appeal that was Rewarded The passage of the Rogers' Bill, sponsored by Mrs. F.dith Nourse Rogers, was partly a· triumph of the efforts of Am~ bassador Emmet O'Neal who prepared a personal appeal to Mrs. Rogers. Mrs Rogers s.ponsored H. R. 4073, "A Bill to provide a most satisfactory program of benefits relating to active service in the armed forces of the Commonwealth of tt:e Philippines." The appeal of Ambassador O'Neal runs: "Those Philippine veterans who will be helped by the bill served with or as part of the American Army. They could not refuse to obey orders of their American officers. In obedience to those orders they went to their mutilation or sick bed. They were assured that they would be treated as American soldicrfi. Today they are enduring their war disabilities under tragic conditions. The prompt passage of the bill will off~r some hope to maPY brave Filipino-American soldiers, who are now suffel'ing from wounds received in opeying orders of their American officers. Irrespective of difference of opinions on other Philippine legislation, this despairing group of sick and disabled soldiers should be immediately helped." Philippines t,o get U. S. Storm Plotfier The Philippine Mission of the United States Weather Bure8.l.l will transfer to the Philippine Weather Bureau in July or August of this year specialized meteorological equipment capable of accurately tracing the location of typhoons anil their paths. National Affairs The equipment, developed by the United States Navy, will be the third leg of a triangle with other stations at Guam and Okinawa. Through this network necessary bearings can be taken and accu1·ate locations of typhoon activities can be given. The U.S. Navy and the Philippine Weather Bureau, will cooperate in the ty.phoon plotting pru .. gram. New York University to help U. P. New York University's Washington Square College has announced that funds will be raised to aid in the rehabiljtation of the University of the Philippines, destroyed during the battle of Manila in 1945. The New York Herald-Tribune reported that Professor Andres Beaumont, student affairs chairman of the college, aaid that proceeds of specially planned dances and carnivals will go to the Manila university; C'!onsidered one of the most hadly damaged buildings in the world today. In addition; contribution boxes will be placed in ,strategic places. The plan was originated by the students themselves. It also calls for the collection of book& for the university, which had suffered 95 per cent loss of equipment and books. Doctor Bienvenido M. Gonzales, President of the University of the Philippines, has thanked the Washington Square student body. Filipino jurist Hails U. S. Friendship A partnership of the American and the Filipino peoples since 1898 bas continued although the PhiJ.ippines became an independent republic in 1946, said 29 Doctor Francisco A. Delgado, member The bill, which already has passed the qf the court of Appeals of the Philip. Senate, also p!:ovides for the granting ines in California .. "No other country of 90 fellowships to Filipino student.a in the world can say that, though a for advance study of public health meweak nation it ga1ned independence thods and administration in U.S. colfrom a stronger one on no otb_er basis than that of good will;'' declared Dr. Delgado before a Foreign Trade Association meeting. "We Filipinos stood with you Americans in the struggle against Japan;" he continued. "In any struggle against Communism you can be assured that we will remain loyal to democracy and the American we.y of life. '' Dr. Delgado pointed to the great . natural resources and labor supply of the Philippine'SI but said American capital is needed. He said that outside a few inequalities, economic relations betWeen the two countries are working out satisfactorily. ACA Authorization Now Exceeds $393 Million New procurement z.uthorization by the U .1S. Eoonomtc Coopera~ion Administration for commodities and foodstuffs brings the total of such authorization to date to $393,737,029, EdA Adniinistration Paul G. Hoffman recently announced. Latest purchase approvals come to $95,610,605. Danish autho!'ization includes $151.900 for fish meal and $47.500 in rapeseed from Canada, and $611,000 of copra from the Philippines. Health Bill Approved The U.S. Public l{ealth Service would establish a system of public health training in the Philippines under the provhdon.s of a bill approved by the House foreign affairs committee Wednesday. 30 leges and universities. Fellowship recipient.CJ would be named by the Presid~nt of the Philippines. Ten. additional FiliPlnos could qualify for five months of advance training in these fields under the act. All of the visiting students would observe public health practice in the United States as part of their training. Sufficient flour fior the Philippines . Efforts have been exerted by the Office of International Trade (OIT) to make the flour allocation of the Philip. pines sufficient. Efforts of the OIT to assure a sufficient -supply for normal rr.quirements were cited by officials as an 4:.xample of the attention given by' the U.S. government to the nee::J.s of the Ptiilippine Republic. Of the total of 34,880 tons, 22 ,880 were allocated by the OIT. An additional 12))00 tons are expected form Australia. Although the qrr has found it necessary to maintain export controls because of P,mergency requirements for Europe, a strong effort has been made to give the Philippines a SUDply that will per,,. mit a return to conditions approximating tho:.:e of a free rparket, an official source said. Allocation waa mad~ on this basis: 70 per cent to historical exporters and 30 per cent to other applicants. This was done to give maximum opportunity for new exporters t'o share in the Philippines market without disrupting developed trade channels. to an extent that would affect the overall flour supply situation. Current Events Review-July, 1948 U. S. Summary (Continu.ed from page 18) Exercises to Develop Thinking 1. VVhy do you think the Russians do not like to cooperate in the immedi~k abolition of destructive weapons? 2. Russia has refused to consider the proposal of the majority of the members of the Atomic Energy Commission for international inspection of all factories engaged in the use of atomic energy. What do you think are the reasons of Russia for oppo&ing the majority recommendation? 3. Why do you think the RUS..<!ians are opposed to the economic unification of the four zones of occupation in Germany? Would you favor Russia annexation of her zone of occupation in Germany? Why? 4. What do you think is the reason behind the Russian proposal that .the peace treaty with J'a.pa.n be considered by the Council of Foreign Ministers instead of the nations that took. part in the war against Japan? 5. Why is Russia interested in Korea? Do you think the Korean questiOJl should be solved by Korea alone? Why? 6. Do you have pro9fs to show that Russia has interfered in -the domestic affairs of European. countries? Cite some proofs. 7. Why is Russia opposed to the United States proposal that unlimited rights be given to the passage of the United Nations Milit::\ry force to bases wherever they are located? 8. Why do you th1nk the Russians refused to participate j,n the conference oil International Trade and Employment? 9. Wlhy is Russia opposed to the MarWestern Union (Continued from page 11) Exercises to Develop Thinking 1. la the formation of ,the Western Union desirable? Why or why not? 2. A member of the U niled Nations said that the formation df the Unlon is . dangerous to world coqperation? Do yt>u agree with him? Why or why not? 3. Why do you think Britain decided to diange her foreign p.olicy? 4. Do you think Russia has a..ny right to condemn the formation of the Western Union? Why? Give examples to support your answer. 5. Db you thin~ the formation of the Western Uni'on would bring an a.rmed truoe? Why? 6. In what way was Ru~sia. responsible for hastening the formation of the Western Union? 7. Do vol.I think the formaHon of the Western Union will gWe new hopes to the democr,atic world? 8. Do you 'favor the incliusion of the United States in the Western Union? Why? 9. What is the significance of the Wes tern Union? Reference& 1. Bevin, Ernest, "The Organization of the Post-War World," V1"ttat Speeches, Vo1• XIV, No. 8 (February 1, 1948) pp. 226-234. r2. "Bevins We:ster.n Bloc," Ne_W RepublU.. Vol. 118, No. 7 (February 16, 1948) pp.11-13. 3. Churchill, Winston, "Will There be War?" Vital Speeolies~ Vol. XIV, No. 8 (March ·1, 1948) ,pp. 296-301. 4. Matthews, Herbert, 11 ERP is Strong Force for Union of Europe." The New York Times, February 22, 1948, p. E5. 10. Why is Russda opposed to freedom 5. Special Release of the USIS of human rights? March 9, 1948. ••••••••••••ooooooo•OoO•OoOOOOOOoOO•O•OOOOO•oo••oo••oo••oo•OoOOOOOOH00•0•00•00HO••OOOOO•••OOOOOOOO••••OOOHOOHO••OoOOO•OOOO•OO•O•H•Modem Science 31 War of Documents (Continued from pag,3 8) They tried to relate the results of Rus" sian expansion in Europe with the facts given in the N azi .. Soviet document. With the publications of these documents, comments, and editorials, the world came rto know the real facts after ten long years (1939-1948). For the sake of future historians 1and students of history, historical errors have at last been corrected. Exercises to Develop Thinking l. What w the re1ation of the secret document (Nazi-Soviet R~lations 1939-1941) with the peace settlements of the world? Do you think the acquisitions made by Russia under the secret protocol are justified? Why? 2. Why did Hitler conclude a nonaggression pact with Ru~sia? 3. According to the document, it was Russia who took the initiative 'in proposing the 10 ... year non-aggression pa.ct. Did Russia do this in order to nrevent Germany from attack'ing Fier? Why? 4. According. to historical facts, Hitler was afraid .of war on two fronts - West and Ea:st. Because of his fear, Hitler signed the non-aggression pact with Russia. Was Hitler's action justifiable? Why? 5. Historians say that the failure of Hitler to crush Britain through the Luftw.affe forced Hitler to attacked Russ'ia. The Nazi arttack on Russia was an attempt to prevent Russia from attacking Germany. Justify the Nazi attack on Russia. 6. Tell in your own words the historical significance of the re.velations made in the Nazi-S.oviet document. W,orld News Roundup ( Cont:nued from page 28) assume high obligations to promote world economic recovery a.ind to put a stop to aggression, whether direct or indirect. In all these efforts, we know that we are making a. willing and common contribution to the development, strength, and protection of free countries everywhere." DEMOCRACY Another triumph •Of democracy! The United State:1 Supreme Cou1·t has intervened to pre"·ent. the eviction fnm their home of a Negro pastor, a Chinese, and a Korean. Action came recently in two 6-0 decisions. These two historical decisions paralleled an aC:tion of he Supreme Court declaring unenforceable restrictive real estate covenants based on raee or color. 1\0 one of the new cases the Supreme Court reversed a decision by the Supreme Court of the State of Ohio which held that under a neighborhood property restriction 'the Negro· pa.stor of the Monroe Avenue Church of Christ could not oc~upy a residence which the church had purchased for a. pastorate. In the other decision the tribunal returned to the California. supreme court for further consideration cases in which the lower court had up~eld evictiozi of Tom D. Amer, a Chin¥e. and Yim Kim. Amer, a Korean. Tom and Kim had appee.led the eviction order which was based on real estates restrictions limiting occupancy of their Las Angeles residence tK> persons of Caucasian descent. A week earlier (May 5, 1948), in an~ other 6-0 decision, the Supreme Court declared that i:;atate and federal courts could not enfo!"Ce private agreements restrictin~ occupancy o~ racial or similat' grounds. ····················································•···•···································································· 32 Current Events Review-July, 1948 46. Why are the Chinese Fighting Among Themselves? 4'1. How is the New China Governed Today? 48. How does Indo-China Fight for her Freedom? 49. How has Burma Succeeded in her Fight for Freed-om? 50. How did Indonesia Fight for her Freedom? 51. ·what is the Background of the Indonesian Conflict? 52. Will Pakistan Bring Peace to Troubled India? 53 . VVhat was the Crisis in lndia? 64. Why is there no Peace Between the Two Indias? 55. What is the Future of France? 56. \Vhat is the Future of Korea? 57. Why is Korea the Center '°f Struggle between Russia .and the United States? 58. \Vhat is the Historical Significance of the Yalta Secret Deals? 59. What are the Lessons of World War II? 60. Why has the Truman Doctrine a Vl orld Wide Impact? 61. 'Vill ithe Truman Doctrine L>:!ad to War or Peace? 62. What is the Marshall Pian? G3. 'What is Needed by Europe to Recov.Qr? 64. Will Da.rdanelles Become the Beginning of World War III? 65. "rm Trieste B-ecome another Danzig? 66. \Vhy are the Greeks Fighting Against Greeks?i 67. Will France Become Oommunist? 68. What is the Future of Italy? 69. Why was the Last Italian Election Significant for the World? 70. Why is the Battle of Documents Significant? 71. \Vhy was the Nuremberg Trial Significant? 72. Is the Third Internationale .a Threat to World Paece? 73. Is the European Recovery Program a Sound Investment? 74. Why is th~ Geneva Trade Pact Significant? 75. Will the Arabs Carry Out a Holy War in Palestine? Vi~. How was the Unjted Nations Born? 77. How does the United Natiions Machinery Work? 78. What 1are the Weakness of the United Nations? 79. What is the Future of the United Nations? 80. What has been !Accompliced by the United Nations·? Bl. Should the Veto Power be Abolislied? 82. \Vhy are the Obstructive Results of the Veto Si.gnificant? PS. Has the Veto Power been Abused and Misused by the Big Powers"? 84. Why does France Fear the Revival of the Rhur? 85. 'Vhat is the Significance of the Greek QuestLon? 86. Why is Austria an Unhappy Liberated Country? 87 ·1 Should There be a Separate Treaty with Japan? 89. Can we Find a Solution to the Control of Atom? 89'. 'Vhy is Palestine a World Problem? 90. What Should be Done with Palestine? 91. 'Vhat are the Historical Facts in the Palestine Question? 92. Why dM the Moscow Conference Fail? 9~. 'Why did the London Conference Fail? 94. Rb:e and Fall of the German Enwire !'.15. Rise and Fall of the Ita1ian Empire 9R. R;.se and Fall of the .Japanese Empire 97. What 'is Americ.a's Stand on World Peace? 98. \Vhat is Russia's Stand on World Disarmament? 99. 'Vhat is Britain':: Stand on World Disarmament? LOO. What is Am::-rica's Stand- ~11 \Vorld Dis.armament? Permanent Supplementary Reading Materials for Class·es in History and Social Sciences Published in the First 28 Issues of the Current Events Review 1. Will 194& be the Slipreme Test of World Communism? 2. What Does Russia Want? 3. ".Vhat is Happening Today ln.s.ide the Iron Curtain? 4. Will Russia,s Pl4n for ·Eu1·ope Succeed? 5. How did Russia Build Her Iron Curtain in. Europe? 6. What Must be Dune to Stop Russia? 7, What. are tho Chances. of World War III? 8. Why do People Talk of World War III? 9. Why Is Complete Peace Being Delayed? 10. Why are the United States 3.nd Britain· Suspicious of Ru~~ia? 11. ·Why is Russia S1uspicious of the United States and Britain? 12. Wily is Geopolitics a Caure of World Conflicts? 13. How is the Ru~si.an Offensive in the Cold Wa.r in Europe Carried On? 14. How is the Ameri'can Offensive in the Cold War in Europe Carried On? 15. Why is the Division of Eurq-pe in Two R;ival Blocks Si!Jllificant? 16. Where Do the United States and Ru.~sia Fa-ce Each Other? 17. 'Vhat are the Peace Problems of Europe? 18. \Vhat are the Peace Prol"·lems of the 'Far E·Mt? 19. 'Vhat are the Peace problems of the Middle East? 20. What shall We do With the Atom? 21. '\rhat are ·Russia's Prot>osals for the Control of ,Atomic Energy? 22. 'Vhat Pna;ress ha.; been .Made in· the Control of Atomic Energy? 23. 'Vhat Lesson" have been Learned from the Bikini Atom Bom Tests? 24. V.7hat is the History of the Atom Bomb? 25. \\7hat are the Peacetime Uses of Atomic Energy? 26. What are the Science Ptoblems according to the Atomic Commission? 27. What are the Pro-:pects for a \Vorld Government? 28. Why is the \Vorld Drafting an International Bill of Human Rights? 29. 'Vhat is Rmsia's Plan for Germany? 30. What is the American Plan for Germany? ·.'H. \Vhat is the British plan for Germ:::iny? 32. Whv has the Pntsrl::il'l'l Agreement Caused Conflicts between Russia and tha Democratic \Vorld?I 33. Is There a Need for a United States of Europe? 34. \Vhat is the Significance of the \Vestern Union? 35. \Vhy is the Balkans the Pow_derkeg- of Europe? 36. v.ras Poland BetrayPd bv the Allies? 37. V.7as Hungary the Victim of Red Infiltration? ~8. Why was Czech Democ1:.acy I}.illed? 39. \Vhat io;; Happening in the 'Ra.lkans Torh.v? 40. What are the Motives and Results of Or"iental Revolts? 41. ·What are the Ocoonation Policies on Japan? 42. VVill .the Japanese Sta.ge- a Comeback for W-orld Power? 43. How is the New Ja;t:-an Governed Toda.y? 44. \Vhat Progress has been Made on the Occupation of Japan?