The Yalta Conference in February 1945 brought together the leaders of the United States, United Kingdom, and Soviet Union to plan for the post-war world as World War II continued. There was a focus on Poland, as Stalin wanted to ensure it became communist and friendly to the USSR, while Churchill and Roosevelt wanted it to be democratic. Roosevelt was ill and trusted Stalin, while Churchill distrusted Stalin and was worried about Soviet influence spreading across Eastern Europe. Poland was important because it was the largest country in Eastern Europe and there were competing Polish governments-in-exile that had different views on Soviet control.

1. THE YALTA CONFERENCEMet at Yalta Feb 1945.War still going.Aim to plan for the world after victory.Much of the focus on Poland.Why do you think they would try to avoid disagreement at this time?

2. WHO? ROOSEVELTPresident of US throughout war.Very sick at this stage – poor judgment?Keen to ensure Eastern Europe would be democraticBUT… personally trusted Stalin and keen to ensure USA and USSR friends after WW1

3. WHO? CHURCHILLBritish PM for most of warDid not like or trust StalinWanted to ensure Poland democracy after warWorried whole E Europe would become communist as USSR army invades (hates)Moral obligation – why war in first place!

4. STALINObsessed with security for USSRWanted ensure Poland friendly and communistA buffer zone (with rest of E Europe) to prevent an invasion in the future.Does not trust Chruchill

5. Why was Poland so important?LARGEST – most important country in E Europe.LONDON POLES – The government, intellectuals fled to London in 1939 when Hitler invaded. They were recognised by GB as ‘real’ government – they hated USSR as had been ruled by Russia until 1917 and Nazi Soviet Pact in 1939 (also massacres by USSR of Polish Officers at Katyn)LUBLIN POLES – As USSR came close to liberating Poland in 1944 they set up a communist ‘real’ government. Stalin knew these Poles were friendly.WARSAW UPRISING – London Poles ordered their supporters in Warsaw to revolt against Germans as USSR army approached. Felt only way to stop Stalin taking over. USSR sits and does not help – watches on the outskirts as Germans surround, massacre and destroy. Shocks other allies.

6. The rest is up to you…..