Assignment 1

Part 1
According to Mead and Churchill, the post-World War II era should have been different
from the preceding era of European history in numerous ways. Mead and Churchill expected that
the post-World War II period should have been peaceful because the war had resulted in many
losses. Notably, this period should have been characterized by peace treaties between countries
to increase their level of cooperation to rebuild their economies. On the contrary, the countries
continued to make nuclear weapons and still engaged in silent wars (Chapter 11, n.d).
Additionally, the post-war period should have been characterized by enlightenment ideas that
would promote nations’ economic and political growth. It is vital to acknowledge that the
enlightenment ideas that sprouted after the war were cynical and only promoted dictatorship and
subsequent wars. World War II significantly weakened great powers, such as France and Britain,
and thus constructive enlightenment ideas would help them rise back in all aspects. Based on the
things that Mead and Churchill said in 1943 and 1946, the emergence of the Cold War was not a
surprise because different nations were fueling it through constant attacks on other countries.
Part 2
From the point of view of Mead and Churchill, the catastrophes of the World War II era
are only a setback for European progress toward a better future due to many reasons. First,
Europe is endowed with resources that can significantly help revive its economic growth within a
short period of time. It is vital to acknowledge that resources are key to increased economic
growth. Additionally, Europe can engage in fruitful talks with other powerful nations, which can
help in the restoration of peace that is key to the economic and political stability of Europe.

3

Reference

Chapter 11 (n.d). Downhill all the way: World War II and the Holocaust.