9781422285503

Chapter one

The Evolution of the United Nations

Though 1945 brought the defeat of the Axis powers and the end of World War II, the world was far from a peaceful place. The Allies had proven they would use atomic weapons, and for many countries, that threat loomed large. Fortunately, the victors were no more interested in a continuing conflict than were the defeated powers. Three years previously—even before the end of the war— the leaders of twenty-six countries had met to devise a plan for maintaining peace in the world after the war ended. That meeting was the beginning of the United Nations. Wo r d s t o U n d e r s ta n d Allies : the countries, including the United Kingdom, the United States, China, and the Soviet Union, that fought against the Axis powers in World War II. Axis powers : the group of countries, including Germany, Italy, and Japan, that fought against the Allies in World War II. delegates : individuals chosen to represent or act on behalf of another person, organization, or government. preamble : the opening section of a document that explains the purpose of what follows.

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Chapter One