In the last months of the war and even beyond, it was apparent that Josef Stalin saw the liberation of Europe as a way to spread communism throughout Eastern Europe. His counterpart at Yalta, Winston Churchill, realized that getting Stalin to move his troops back to the USSR and allow free elections in the liberated nations of Poland, Czechoslovakia, Hungary, Bulgaria, etc. was an impossibility thus, creating a so-called "Iron Curtain".
In the "Iron Curtain" speech given on March 5, 1946, Churchill warns of the "war" that will be waged between the "evil" forces of Soviet communism and the liberating forces of democracy. Stalin's response to Churchill came later that year. Read both speeches and comment on their message and tone? What does Stalin accuse Churchill of doing? In your opinion, who get the better of the exchange?
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The in Iron Curtin speech, Churchill presents facts in a regretful tone. He states that he knows Stalin and that he feels sympathy for the Russian people. It is not so much that Winston Churchill despises Russia; it is more that they have isolated themselves from everyone else. Churchill recognizes that Russia has helped during times of war, but he also says that all they want is strength and respect. He goes on to say, that it is not worth fighting Russia and essentially giving in to their call because overall it is a selfish cry for help. Throughout the speech, Churchill is not giving a call to arms and he does not say anywhere that we as a nation need to unite to defeat Russia. The speech is that Russia is trying to exclude themselves from everyone else like a selfish four year old.
ReplyDeleteIn Stalin’s reply to Churchill, Stalin states that Germany and the United States are one in the same. It seems as though Stalin is trying to scare the Russian people into staying with Russia (as if they have a choice otherwise). Stalin is accusing Churchill of being like Hitler and basing that opinion on the “English Radical theory,” which, in Stalin’s eyes, is the English trying to claim superiority over every other nation. Along with accusing Churchill of proclaiming English superiority, Stalin says that the growth of Communism is due to the hard years of fascism in Europe and not as a the ultimatum for the Russian people. Essentially, Stalin’s response to Churchill is an attempt to make Winston Churchill look like a horrible person that is threatening the very livelihood of Communism. Not only is this not the case, Stalin does not do a very good job in making Churchill look like a bad guy.
The better exchange is clearly for Russia to give in to Churchill’s request and unify Europe for the safety of the world. Russia, however, is too busy chasing a dream which will never come true and does not see that uniting with the rest of Europe is for the best so they will no longer be an outcast to the rest of the world.
Churchill's tone of the speech is like to the point. He is trying to get across what he needs to say and he is saying it in a straight forward manner. He feels that communist constitute a growing challenge and peril to Christian civilization. He also belives that the Soviet Russia does not desire war, but the fruits of war and the indefinite expansion of power. Churchill says that the permanent prevention of war will not come by people just delaying it, people need a settlement, which is why people were not spared by the miseries of Hitler. Stalin's response has a tone with a little bit of anger because he starts out saying that Churchill is a firebrand of war. He accuses Churchill of wandering around the truth when he speaks of the growth of the communist parties and Stalin says it is not accidental, but it is normal that they are growing because of fascism. I feel that Stalin got the better of the exchange because he knew more information about the subject and he really kind of calls Churchill out.
ReplyDeleteIn Churchhill's speech,his clear message is calling for unity between the United States and Brittain, and also through organizations like UN to unify.Churchhill sees a threat in the Soviet expansion-in saying"they desire is the fruits of war and indefinite expansion of their power and doctrines.This shows the uncontrollable Russian outlook-which further emphazises the need for unification of the liberating democracy forces.The 'safety of the world' depends on this and Churchhill lends the recent example of Hitler's spiraling takeover of Europe, which was foreseen early on, despite inaction by any countries. Churchhill is not advocating for a fullfledged war, but sees necessary steps to take against the Soviet expansion.He says it is an important time now-to take action and align the good forces against Russia.His tone is more positive and unifying, but also supports his message with facts about the Soviet outlook.It is a call to action not in war, but in unification.WWII is ending, but Churchhill wants the good forces to stand their ground to keep a stabile peace.
ReplyDeleteStalin takes a much different approach to Churchhill- his tone is very defensive and attacks Churchill a lot. Expectadly, Stalin defends the Soviet expansion as normal because they show themselves as "reliable, daring, self sacrificing fighters against fascist regimes for the liberty of the people". He calls the so called 'expansionist tendencies' as merely 'peaceful aspirations'.This is a very positive view of Soviets.Stalin attacks Churchill right to start by comparing his English-US unification to German superiority.Stalin says that Churchill is starting a war with this 'racial' alignment and aggressive attack on Stalin.Although Churchill said nothing about racial theory to rule over the world, Stalin compares him to Hitler. His tone is very aggresive towards Churchill.
Stalin saw this speech as a chance to attack Churchill, but Churchill was calling for more of a unification.Churchill still won the battle because he gave good steps for the good countries to take in preparing for the threats Soviet expansion.This had a much better direction for the world, as opposed Stalin lashing out at Churchill and painting a much prettier picture of the Soviet Union.
In Churchill's speech, he desperately tries to convince the Russians to break down the "Iron Curtain," stop their communist ways, and join the rest of Europe in unity. Churchill thinks very highly of the English-speaking people, the British and the Americans. He believes that they both have the opportunity to change the world around them and create an environment where everyone lives by the same rules. Churchill says that Britain is sympathetic to the Russians, and they want to "re-establish lasting friendships." He wants to help the Russians by telling them that the only way to avoid war is by stopping their communist ways. He believes that the only way to safety in Europe is by not outcasting any countries. However, Russia is doing just that- outcasting themselves. He thinks that when there is something such as an "Iron Curtain" dividing two countries and schools of thought, war is bound to occur. War is imminent unless the Soviets can join the rest of Europe in their political ways. The only way to prevent war is by establishing freedom and democracy in all countries. Churchill believes that the other European countries need to show military strength, which the Russians will admire and respect. That is the only way that the new war can be avoided. He says that "if all British moral and material forces are joined with your own in fraternal association, the high roads of the future will be clear." The optimistic Churchill wants nothing more than to create a peaceful Europe.
ReplyDeleteStalin, on the other hand, backlashes at Churchill angrily by accusing him of being a racist and comparing him to Hitler. He accuses Churchill of "letting war loose" by saying that the English speaking countries are superior to all the rest. He says that Churchill is like Hitler because Churchill believes that only people speaking the English language are fit enough to run a valuable nation. The Soviets do not want to unite with the rest of Europe because they remember all the suffering the rest of Europe caused them. He argues that communism is the way to prosperity, which is why it is growing as a function. He believes that communists are daring, brave fighters that other Europeans should emulate. He defends communism while attacking Churchill and his beliefs.
Although I believe that Churchill's speech is much more rational and realistic, Stalin gains the upper hand in this argument due to his verbal attack of Churchill. It has a greater chance to change peoples minds on this issue than Churchill's calm, passive speech. By relating Churchill to Hitler, however true it may be, Stalin creates a negative picture of Churchill in peoples' minds instantly. Although Stalin's dreams of a communist world will never come true, he will never give in to Churchill's wants and reunite with the rest of Europe.
In the "Iron Curtain" speech, Churchill expresses that he doesn't want another war to occur. He wants all the countries of Europe to come together and unite. Instead of condemning Russia and Germany, he seems to sympathize with them. He states, "I have a strong admiration and regard for the valiant people of Russia and for my wartime comrade, Marshal Stalin". He thinks that all Russia desires is strength and they have no respect for countries with a weak military. Churchill believes that the key to the safety of the world is the pacification of Europe. The United States have had to send their troops over twice to end the wars in Europe. The U.S and Britain have never had key parts to do with starting the war, but they always have come to finish it. This is what Churchill means when he says "Iron Curtain". This is the barrier between the Western powers and the area control by the large, formidable Soviet Union. Churchill believes that Russia must work with the other countries to get rid of this barrier and join the rest of Europe. In doing so, it will prevent another World War.
ReplyDeleteIn Stalin's response, he says that Britain and the U.S is just as bad as any other country in Europe. HE even says that the Soviet Union and lost a lot more men than the U.S and Britain combined. He also says that the Soviet Union wants to ensure its security for the future and Churchill is accusing them of having "expansionist tendencies". These "tendencies" are just the peaceful aspirations of the Soviet Union according to Stalin. Stalin associates Churchill with Hitler by saying that the both have the same goal. Hitler believes that German-speaking people represent a great nation and that makes them better than other nations. Therefore, they must impose their will on other nations. Churchill is the same because he thinks that English speaking nations are better. Overall, Churchill wants to unite the countries of Europe and take down the barrier, while Stalin condemns Churchill for his involvement in the World Wars and associates him with Hitler. Stalin is more on the offensive side even in his response because Churchill never really wanted to pick a fight. Churchill's speech made a lot of sense and is true but Stalin's response was brutal and I think Stalin gets the better of the exchange just because of his verbal attack on Churchill.
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ReplyDeleteIn Churchill's "Iron Curtain" speech, he begins by stating the power of the United States, and how they are "at the pinnacle of world power". Churchill believes that the reason for the immense power of the United States is because of the democracy they have created. Churchill pleads his case to the Russians, and tries to persuade them to develop a society that relies on a democracy. In an effort to express the importance and the value of a democracy, Churchill says , "Opportunity is here now, clear and shining, for both our countries". Churchill believes, and also wants there to be no more wars in Europe. The only feasible way to accomplish this, is for the Russians to drop their communist ways, and unite with the rest of Europe in a democratic state. Throughout the speech, Churchill never seems to accuse the Russians, yet he shows compassion to the Russians. He believes that the only way for prevention of war outbreak in Europe is to not outcast any countries. Churchill believes that Russia is outcasting themselves with the use of the "Iron Curtain". The iron curtain seperates the two countries from each other, which in time, another war is inevitable. Churchill also states that the Russians want nothing more than to expand, and grow more powerful than they already are. They admire military strength, but prey on the military weakness of others. Churchill believes that a way to unite the countries of Europe is to accumulate military strength, which the Russians will admire.
ReplyDeleteIn Stalin's response to Churchill's speech, he accuses Churchill of being a racist, and compares him to Hitler. He says, "Mr. Churchill begins to set war loose, also by a racial theory, maintaining that only nations speaking the English language are fully valuable nations". Stalin refuses to unite with the rest of the countries of Europe because of the hardships that Soviet Russia dealt with. He defends Russia and their communistic ways. He says that Churchill is like Hitler, because he only believes that one specific type of race can rule on this earth.
Churchill has a more elaborate and well-reasoned speech. His ideas are entirely more feasible, and represent a better way of life for the saftety and peace of Europe. This said, I believe Stalin got the better of this exchange, because he compares Churchill to one of the most hated men in history, Hitler. The people of Europe do not want another occurance in which many people are killed, and a specific race is breeded and generated. Stalin refuses to unite with the rest of Europe, and communism will live on for a while longer.
Winston Churchill's speech echoes from the start with a call to duty of the westernized democracies, and specifically, the english speaking ones. His speech sounds similar to the 'White Man's Burden' by Rudyard Kipling, in the way Churchill describes the task which falls upon the Americans. Upon the completion of World War II, Churchill believes that, "The United States stands at this time at the pinnacle of world power. It is a solemn moment for the American democracy. For with this primacy in power is also joined an awe-inspiring accountability to the future." He states that the United States must step up to the challenge of preventing more horrific and deadly wars such as WWII. They must not act in the same way they did in the 1920's, because another 'isolation' policy could be disastrous. "Last time I saw it all coming and I cried aloud to my own fellow countrymen and to the world, but no one paid any attention. Up till the year 1933 or even 1935, Germany might have been saved from the awful fate which has overtaken her and we might all have been spared the miseries Hitler let loose upon mankind." Churchill knows that the Cold War can be prevented in the same way the Second World War could have been prevented, earlier action. At the same time, Churchill never explicitly declares Soviet Russia to be the enemy. He states, "There is deep sympathy and goodwill in Britain -- and I doubt not here also -- toward the peoples of all the Russias and a resolve to persevere through many differences and rebuffs in establishing lasting friendships." He is not yet so sure as to explicitly call Russia evil, but his speech implies it. He draws the potential battle lines between democracy and Communism.
ReplyDeleteJoseph Stalin responds to Churchill's speech. His speech however, is not vague at all. He paints Churchill and America as the antagonist, on the same level as Hitler and the Germans. He accuses them of this by claiming that they, "are trying to push into oblivion these sacrifices of the Soviet people which insured the liberation of Europe from the Hitlerite yoke." Stalin claims that the Soviet control over the Eastern European countries is completely legitimate, and that they are simply "loyal" to the Soviet Union. He says, "...the Soviet Union, in a desire to ensure its security for the future, tries to achieve that these countries should have governments whose relations to the Soviet Union are loyal? How can one, without having lost one's reason, qualify these peaceful aspirations of the Soviet Union as "expansionist tendencies" of our Government?. . ." He destroys any accusations that the Soviet Union might be attempting to force its control upon any other countries.
Stalin accuses Churchill of mistreating the common people. He says that Churchill does not truly understand the people in the way that they are understood in a Communist regime. Upon this argument, Stalin claims that Communism is spreading naturally. He even uses England as an example to show this. "It is they, millions of these common people, who voted Mr. Churchill and his party out in England, giving their votes to the Labor party. It is they, millions of these common people, who isolated reactionaries in Europe, collaborators with fascism, and gave preference to Left democratic parties."
In my opinion, Churchill has the better of the two speeches. This is because I know of that Stalin's speech is completely made up. There is little truth in his statements that Eastern Europe willingly follows the Soviet Union. If I was an unbiased outsider from neither side in 1946, I would have been more compelled by Churchill. His recognition of the reality of the situation shows his reliability and superiority in the exchange. Now that the Cold War has come to a completion and it has been made clear that Churchill's speech was far more accurate than Stalin's, it becomes clear the true superior of the two.
Winston Churchill's speech to America was to inspire Americans to see that their duty as a capitalistic state was to stop the spread of Communism and prevent another World War. Churchill said that World War II could have been prevented without the firing of a single bullet, and it could have been done by preventing the expansion of Germany. This is his plan for Soviet Russia. He intends that the "Iron Curtain", the border that separates Communist and Capitalist states in Europe, be pushed back further into Soviet Russia by liberating Communist-forced states in Western Europe such as Romania and Ukraine. If we continue to let Soviet Russia gain territory, let alone the land they controlled after WWII, they will begin to become power hungry and start threatening states in East Europe like France and England. Churchill asks for America's help in stopping the spread of Communism and preventing another World War.
ReplyDeleteThe tone of Churchill's speech is inspiring to America, for it gives them a sense of the urgency of the situation in Soviet Russia. Churchill's speech sounds like a plea for help, because he believes in America rather than the other European countries, since none of them helped him when he wanted to stop Hitler earlier than later.
In Stalin's response to Churchill's letter, he also accuses Churchill of acting similar to Hitler. He says that Churchill and the US are creating the "Aryan race" of being those who speak English. He tries to backfire on Churchill's speech by saying that England and the US are the threats to the rest of the world, but more importantly are the biggest threat to the security of the Soviet Union. His tone in his response is very aggressive and harsh towards Churchill and his speech.
I believe that Stalin gets better of the exchange because his words stir a more powerful message to the people of his country. Churchill compares Stalin to the expanding/greedy side of Hitler, but Stalin compares Churchill to the racist/murderer side of Hitler. Stalin's comparison is much more powerful and definitely stirs more inspiration in my opinion than Churchill's speech.
In the speech "Iron Curtain" Churchill expresses his opinion on the brink of war in Europ; mainly with Russia or the USSR. Churchill believes that the American people should be doing something about the USSR's tactics and that they should be stopped. Winston Churchill also believes that America is the greatest nation in the world, or "pinnacle" in his words. And as the greatest nation in the world they have responsibilities. Such responsibilities include insuring safety and well being of the entire human race, along with uniting the nations of Europe,preventing war, and promoting peace.
ReplyDeleteStalin in my opinion totally skewed what Churchill was trying to say. He thought Churchill was making an argument that was similar to that of Adolf Hitler. He acted in response to like that to Churchill because he knew it was true, and it attacked Churchill's very beliefs.
In the Iron Curtain Speech given by Winston Churchill, he is trying to threaten the American people with the idea of another brutal war in order to get them to realize that the Communist expansion must be stopped. America, along with Britain, had just finished WWII, which took a huge toll on American people in and out of the armed forces. The fact that Churchill would bring up the idea of another war only 1 year after WWII had ended was a great way to catch the Americans attention. Also, Churchill mentioned howban together to push back the possibility of "an inevitable war." English Speaking Nations needed to No one wanted another war. In fact, many men in the armed forces were just returning home from WWII duty! Churchill wanted to push the iron curtain further west towards Russia so that Communist Russia could not take over the last few nations not in NATO and NATO countries as well!
ReplyDeleteJosef Stalin responds to the remarks made by Churchill very well. He states that Churchill's idea that all of the English speaking nations needing to ban together was alot like Hitler's idea of all of the Germans being superior over the rest of Europe. This was very true, and deffinately would have scared people after having just finishing a Hitlerite war. Throughout this speech, Stalin seems to be not only responding to Churchill, but to be attacking the Iron Curtain speech. A good example of this is when Stalin reacts to the common people that Churchill commonly refers to as his friends. Stalin boldly states, "It is they, millions of these common people, who voted Mr. Churchill and his party out in England." Stalin takes Churchill's ideas and flips them around in order to attack Churchill personally.
In my opinion, I think Stalin gets the better of the exchange. Although Churchill did not lack inspiration and emotion, Stalin took it upon himself to directly attack the words of Chuchill. For me, a direct attack on a possible enemy is more inspirational then a speech of ideas.
In Winston Churchill's "Iron Curtain" speech, he mentions components of nationalism, democracy, and communism. Churchill shows nationalistic pride by stating that the eastern nations should become more like the western nations. His speech is almost like an imperialistic speech in that he states that the americans need to step up and take care of business for the eastern nations. The eastern nations represent the natives.Another way he presents nationalism is by stating that America is the pinnacle of society at this point and the progress of eastern society depends on them. He states that a new method different from the one used last time must be used in order to prevent issues such as Cold War. Winston Churchill realizes that with earlier and more prompt action, the Cold War could be prevented. Throughout his speech, he never explicitly talks bad about the Russian society and communism. However, by reading his speech, it can be inferred that he believes that communism is wrong and will only do harm to the society whereas democracy will help the society progress and succeed.
ReplyDeleteStalin responds to Churchill's speech by first depicting the US as the "bad guy." He states that the US is trying to manipulate with the people's feelings just to take over the land and achieve more power in the end. At the same time, Stalins supports the Soviet Union by stating that it is a legitimate government that will help benefit the society. Stalin also emphasizes the fact that the Soviet Union isn't enforcing their power upon any other states. He says this by stating that communism is natural. To back this up, Stalin uses Britain as an example of how communism is spreading naturally. Stalin strongly disagrees with Churchill and states that the US doesn't actually know how the people are feeling and that they are just trying to gain more power.
I would say that Churchill got the better of the exchange because his speech has a much stronger basis towards his argument. Stalin's speech is pretty much invalid considering the fact that the countries do not willingly abide by communism and Soviet Union. From this it can be concluded that Stalin is not fully genuine in what he states about the Soviet Union which makes Churchill much more reliable. Also, Churchill's realization about the what is really going on in the world and the support he gives to back his statement shows that his facts are dependable which makes his speech better than Stalin's.
JC Lee
In Churchill's speech, The Iron Curtain, is saying how he both respects his opponent, the Russians, but also finds that they have flaws in their reasoning. Churchill says how he thinks that the Russians have too much control and power over many different famous cities and nations. He is also saying that in order to keep the Soviets in line and keep them from taking over the whole world, all of the European nations and the USA must work together to keep them tamed. Churchill is also saying how the Soviets do not desire war but they do desire whatever comes out of war (it's fruits) and the possibility of expanding and spreading its ideologies, such as Communism. Churchill would rather create peace and freedom than go to war. Churchill wanted to completely get rid of all the dangers that Stalin proposed. He is also saying how the Russians are very powerful and take pride in the fact that they have strength and disrespected the weak. He went on to say that for that reason they needed to keep up a strong military. He finally says that the United Nations need to come together and unify each other.
ReplyDeleteIn Stalin's response to Churchill's speech, he begins by saying that Churchill is like Hitler because of the idea of racial supremacy. He is also saying how the Soviet Union lost many more people than the British and the Americans combined and therefore they deserve more land and power. Stalin denies that they are trying to spread communism but it is being adopted by others because it shows a strong reaction against Fascists.
Stalin is accusing Churchill of being just like Hitler because he thinks that the English speaking nations should have control over the other nations of the world. I believe that Churchill gets the better of the exchange because he is mostly telling the truth in that he wants to unite with other nations and keep the Soviets in line. Stalin in his response, attempts to spout lies and tries to alienate Churchill with being the same type of leader as Hitler.
Churchill's speech showed his views of Russia after the war. He sympathized with the Russian people and he also saw Stalin as an ally from the war. He believes that all Russia wants is power and that his how they view wealth. Though Churchill sympathizes with them, he condemns them for isolating themselves from the rest of the world. He states that it is necessary for the European nations to be united. He sees Russia's alienation as a problem and should be resolved because it could become a source for another war. He sees Russia as pre-war Germany who could have been saved from the evils of Hitler and could have been prosperous and respected.
ReplyDeleteStalin responds by saying that Churchill is acting similar to Hitler. He says that Churchill believes that countries speaking English are superior and that he wants their form of government to be dominant. He argues that the communists have the right to spread their influence because they helped the people when they were in need.
Churchill is using this speech as a sort of call to arms for all of the English-speaking people of the world. He's suggesting that just like in their times of peace where they worked together in order to come up with a resolution, they also come together in a time of war and use their influence to spread Capitalism to the backwards Communist people of Russia. In a sense, it could be said that he's attempting to attach a sort of responsibility through his claim that America "stands at this time at the pinnacle of world power". He believes that because we are powerful, we are responsible for the dethronement of this murderous country leader. Churchill fears that Stalin will become just as, if not more, powerful than Hitler was and could possibly start another World War which won't be won by the Allied Powers. He, instead, suggests that the English speaking nations take responsibility and nip this in the bud before it gets out of hand. As of when Churchill wrote this, Communism was, in a sense, already out of hand. It was spread throughout Europe and starting to infiltrate Asia. Northern Africa, as we saw in class, was also affected by this. Churchill simply suggests that America and England join together in order to take preemptive action against Russia, who's starting to become a bit too uppity.
ReplyDeleteStalin's response only sounds a little bit angry. He starts off by equating Churchill to Hitler and the United States as his his people. He suggests that similarly, like Hitler, the USA and Britain intends on world domination through putting down Communism. Him saying "It may be that some quarters are trying to push into oblivion these sacrifices of the Soviet people which insured the liberation of Europe from the Hitlerite yoke." comes off more like "BAWWWWWW THEY'RE PUTTING US DOWN AND TAKING AWAY THE FUN AFTER WE HELPED THEM". This, however, would definitely relate to the sentiments of the Soviet people. I'm sure that the Soviets were feeling the same way. They just got destroyed in two World Wars in which they feel as if they were a large part of the success of the Allies. However, they probably felt as if they were being backstabbed. This is why Stalin makes these outrageous accusations, to paint the United States and Churchill as greedy self-servers who care more about power rather than the support of the people. In addition to this, he suggests that the USA and Britain intend on having the English-speaking people as the only powerful group of people. Stalin uses this piece to his advantage, suggesting that they don't care at all about the Russian people.
Although Stalin comes off as a bitter two-year old who likes to make false accusations, his speech was most likely far more well-received than Churchill's and I believe that he got the better of the two exchanges. Although we know that a good majority of the stuff said were either exaggerated truths or simply outright fallacies, the Russian people probably ate it up. Hitler himself said it best in Mein Kampf when he said "The task of propaganda does not lie in the scientific training of individuals, but in directing the masses toward certain facts, events, necessities, etc., whose significance is to be brought to their attention." Stalin's speech is a piece of propaganda. He's equating the USA and Britain to Hitler, a murderous tyrant. He's used this fact- along with twisting Churchill's suggestion that responsibility lies on English speakers to make it seem like he believes that English speakers are the best- to make them look bad. He suggests that under Capitalism, the same thing that happened with Hitler will happen again.
Oh, and I guess the Vanguard's pretty cool. My bad.
in his speech, the iron curtain, winston is trying to prevent another world war. he says that the last world war could of been pacified without even one shot of a rifle. he says that the strong parent races in europe are spark and fuel for the previous world wars so far and that the US should not have to send millions of our young men to die for europes quarrels. he also says a new war is inevitable and imminent because soviet russia desires the fruits of war and indefinite expansion of their power and doctrine. i think that this desire will drive russia to start a new war. the only way to stop t his war is to "establish conditions of freedom and democracy." not just sit by waiting and close our eyes. because the russians admire and are addicited to power/strength. and will attain such at any cost. the only way to great "grand pacification is to fuse english speaking views and materials with the Russians'. Winstons speach is inspiring and accusatory of the russians. he tries to inspire the russians and other people to take up his idea.
ReplyDeletestalins, in his response to winston, very convincingly compares him to Hitler. He does this by comparing each's method of gaining power and starting war. Stalin says that Hitler began to set war by using racial theory, declaring only the German language fully represents a full valuable nation. Winston is saying that only an English speaking country represents a fully valuable nation. they both used a language as a racial reason to gain power. Also, Hitler and his friends believed that Germany was the best most valuable nation and deserved to rule over other nations. Winston is now saying that English Nations deserve to rule over other nations. these two comparisons are almost scary to me. Stalin then goes on to talk about how communism was not an accident. how it spread throughout Europe was no surprise because communists are reliable, self-sacrificing and willing to fight for their cause.
Stalin accused Winston of becoming the next Hitler. he accused him of using the same methods Hitler used to come into power. Racial and national
Stalin, in my opinion , get the better of the exchange because the people will remember Hitler and his deceitful ways and how evil he was. Anything associated or even compared to him will crash and burn. Stalin definitely proves his point better in my eyes.
AMERICA!!!!
in his speech, the iron curtain, winston is trying to prevent another world war. he says that the last world war could of been pacified without even one shot of a rifle. he says that the strong parent races in europe are spark and fuel for the previous world wars so far and that the US should not have to send millions of our young men to die for europes quarrels. he also says a new war is inevitable and imminent because soviet russia desires the fruits of war and indefinite expansion of their power and doctrine. i think that this desire will drive russia to start a new war. the only way to stop t his war is to "establish conditions of freedom and democracy." not just sit by waiting and close our eyes. because the russians admire and are addicited to power/strength. and will attain such at any cost. the only way to great "grand pacification is to fuse english speaking views and materials with the Russians'. Winstons speach is inspiring and accusatory of the russians. he tries to inspire the russians and other people to take up his idea.
ReplyDeletestalins, in his response to winston, very convincingly compares him to Hitler. He does this by comparing each's method of gaining power and starting war. Stalin says that Hitler began to set war by using racial theory, declaring only the German language fully represents a full valuable nation. Winston is saying that only an English speaking country represents a fully valuable nation. they both used a language as a racial reason to gain power. Also, Hitler and his friends believed that Germany was the best most valuable nation and deserved to rule over other nations. Winston is now saying that English Nations deserve to rule over other nations. these two comparisons are almost scary to me. Stalin then goes on to talk about how communism was not an accident. how it spread throughout Europe was no surprise because communists are reliable, self-sacrificing and willing to fight for their cause.
Stalin accused Winston of becoming the next Hitler. he accused him of using the same methods Hitler used to come into power. Racial and national
Stalin, in my opinion , get the better of the exchange because the people will remember Hitler and his deceitful ways and how evil he was. Anything associated or even compared to him will crash and burn. Stalin definitely proves his point better in my eyes.
AMERICA!!!!
May 17, 2010 6:55 PM
PART 1
ReplyDeleteIn his speech, Churchill provokes strong nationalism and patriotic emotions towards democracy from all who listen to "The Iron Curtain." The dangers that Churchill speaks of are completely correct and definitely present, posing a threat to the democratic world. Keep in mind that in his speech, Churchill isn't declaring war on the Soviet Union and calling them horrendous names; in fact, he would be perfectly fine with their communist ways if they didn't try and impose it upon smaller, weaker European countries. This is the danger that Churchill notices right from the start: the Russians are trying to create a completely communist Europe where they would be the center of all power and life would be regulated to their desires. This is the whole point of the "Iron Curtain." In his speech, Churchill clearly states that after such a devastating world war, the U.S. and Great Britain combined are not powerful enough nor willing enough to push back Russian Communist forces and contain them to solely the Soviet Union, but they do, however, want to prevent them from intruding further into Europe and creating a powerful "Empire" larger in size and strength to that of the ancient Greeks and Romans. This is not the kind of Europe Churchill wants, and he realizes that if they don't at least prevent the Russians from becoming any more powerful and contain their communist ways with this so called "Iron Curtain", then they will be in danger of letting Russia become too powerful (a world domination, in fact), and having communism rule the world. Again, this is the last thing that Churchill wants to happen, yet in this speech he can't start accusing the Soviet Union for crimes they haven's already committed. Instead, his speech is more of a warning, telling the americans and british that this is what could possibly happen, and they will do everything they can to prevent such a situation and protect the democratic nations they so highly value and respect.
PART 2
ReplyDeleteIn his attempt to counter Churchill's speech, Stalin twists around both the wording and meaning of Churchill's remarks to make HIM seem like the bad guy. He compares Churchill with Hitler, stating that Hitler's regime, which was predicated on racism and stereotypical hate for a certain group of people, is very similar to Churchill's. He states that Churchill believes only "nations speaking the English nations are fully valuable nations, called upon to decide the destinies of the entire world." This isn't at all what Churchill believes. Nowhere in his speech did he say this, nor would he support this; it is the same kind of evil he helped to rid from Europe in the fight against Hitler. In fact, Stalin is the one who believes his nation should decide the destinies of the entire world. As i stated before, he conquers smaller, weaker nations, rigs their elections so the communist party will win the most power in the nations government, and then alters history through control of the media and kills off anyone who opposes him or disagrees with him. In a sense, he is just as bad if not worse than Hitler: instead of killing based on a race, he kills based on a person's political beliefs and opinions! And what's worse, he tries to make it seem like the democratic nations are the oppressive ones. Later on in his speech, he states "It may be that some quarters are trying to push into oblivion these sacrifices of the Soviet people [in WWII] which insured the liberation of Europe from the Hitlerite yoke." Basically, Stalin is angry that Churchill and the americans oppose communism. This is true (Churchill does not wish for communism to be the most powerful form of government in Europe), but Churchill does not have a problem with Russia's communist ways. The problem occurs when the Soviet Union attack weaker nations and rigs their elections so communist regimes slowly come to power and take over Europe. THIS is what Churchill is opposing; if communism were to fairly win the favor of the majority of Europeans, there would be no point in fighting a war against it, but when Russia is forcing it upon the nations of Europe, Churchill can't help but see Hitler-esque ways in his plans. The growth of communism is not "a normal function", as Stalin put it. It is not for "the liberty of peoples" either, it oppresses the freedoms of the everyday person and creates a world of terror that Churchill is scared to see rise to power. In my opinion, Churchill by far gets the better of the exchange because everything he says is 100% true. He doesn't twist the words of Stalin, or make him out to be something that he's not, he says things exactly as they are and doesn't hide his opinions. Stalin, on the other hand, manipulates Churchill's words and makes it seem like he was accusing and targeting the Russians for a crime they hadn't committed, when Churchill was really just WARNING the americans and british of the dangers they would face if the Russians became too greedy and power-hungry.
Winston Chuchill's speech attempts to inspire the American people into action and make them feel that it is there duty to protect and defend the countries of Europe from Soviet Expansion. He appeals to the Americans by beggining his speech "The United States stands at this time at the pinnacle of world power... For with this primacy in power is also joined an awe-inspiring accountability to the future." Churchill is trying to build up the audience's and the nation's confidence in itself, so as that it would not be hesitant in assisting Europe. This is evident when he says, a few paragraphs later "The safety of the world, ladies and gentlemen, requires a unity in Europe..." and he is looking towards the US to be the leader of those countries. Winston Churchill was looking towards the creation of the modern UN. The basic message of the speech was that there needed to be closure to WWII, if there was ever going to be peace in Europe. Winston Churchill wanted a strong US presence in Europe, so as to provide a guideing and protecting hand in the rebuilding of post WWII Europe.
ReplyDeleteIn Stalin's speech in response to the Iron Curtain speech, outlines the fact that Winston Churchill is acting as Hitler did in pre WWII Germany. Stalin's message is that Churchill's crusade for liberty is nothing more than a well disguised plan for English supremacy in the world. He also points to the fact that the common people want him out of office, and that they do not like him as a leader. He also highlights the fact that the Soviet Union does not have "expansionist tendencies" and that he believes people are accepting communism because it is the best choice for government. However Stalin fails to mention that communism is forced upon the Soviet Union's satelite states. Yet Stalin seems to attempt to justify this through his discussion of the losses of the Soviet Union, and how they are just protecting themselves from any more foriegn attacks. He complains about how the US does not see the sacrifice of Soviet citizens in WWII, and that the Soviet Union needs the satelite states to protect itself. He explains this in the form of a question which states "what can be surprising in the fact that the Soviet Union, in a desire to ensure its security for the future, tries to achieve that these countries should have governments whose relations to the Soviet Union are loyal?" This would be a legitimate had the Soviet Union not assumed all authority over those states.
I believe that Stalin got the better part of the exchange since he is able to pick out flaws with Winston Churchill and point to some so called advantages of communism. Winston Churchill's speech was much more ideological and less based on simple facts, and I believe that those simple facts give more power to his speech. Also he was able to form his ideas off of the speech Winston Churchill gave, so he had a more clear topic then Churchill. Churchill had to discuss the basic principles of Communism in Europe and outline how it would affect them, but Stalin's speech was much more centered on the specific topic.
In Winston Churchill’s, the “Iron Curtain”, he talks about how the Soviet Union is spreading their Communism across Europe, and the dangers that it encounters. He starts off his speech basically asking all of the English-speaking countries to back him up. He explains how Russia could become a potential threat. However, he starts in a positive manner, explaining that Europe and America can’t be more thankful and appreciative of the help that Russia has provided for the greater good of Europe. He talks about how Russia helped a great deed, but they may be crossing the line with their sudden concern of spreading Communism. He speaks of an “Iron Curtain” which is a line that Churchill wishes to make, separating Russia from all the important cities of Europe. Churchill addresses the Soviet Union saying, “I do not believe that Soviet Russia desires war. What they desire is the fruits of war and the indefinite expansion of their powers and doctrines.” By saying this, Churchill means that he doesn’t want or expect a war from Russia, unless this desire for more power and land overcomes Stalin’s good decisions. Stalin wants to spread Communism throughout Europe, and Churchill recognizes it and wants to stop it. This being only 1 year after WWII, war is a terrifying idea to anyone in Europe or America, so this speech really grabs the attention of many. Churchill’s speech makes a great argument, but I find the most important and powerful line in the entire speech to be, “Last time I saw it all coming and I cried aloud to my own fellow country men and to the world, but no one paid any attention. Up till the year 1933 or even 1935, Germany might have been saved from the awful fate which has overtaken her and we might all have been spared the miseries Hitler let loose upon mankind.” This quote shows so much power in Churchill’s argument basically warning everyone that even the entire WWII could have been stopped if everyone would have listened to Churchill.
ReplyDeleteIn Joseph Stalin’s response, he justifies what he is doing in Europe and criticizes Churchill. Right off the bat, I find Stalin’s response much more aggressive and angry. He begins his reply bashing Winston Churchill. He compares him to Hitler. He points out things like, “In this respect, one is reminded remarkably of Hitler and his friends. Hitler began to set war loose by announcing his racial theory, declaring that only people speaking the German language represent a fully valuable nation. Mr. Churchill begins to set war loose, also by a racial theory, maintaining that only nations speaking the English language are fully valuable nations, called upon to decide the destinies of the entire world.” This quote is a great retaliation because it not only compares Churchill to Hitler, but provides the support for the argument as well. Stalin perfectly nails this point in, showing side by side, the direct comparison between what Churchill is doing, to what Hitler did. He then goes on to justify what the Soviet Union is saying. He doesn’t claim to be “spreading Communism” throughout Europe, but rather, he argues that Russia deserves a lot of this territory for the sacrifices they made. He says that Russia endured more losses than Britain and the United States combined. In this sense, he acts as if Russia is entitled to a lot of this territory for their hard work and sacrifices. The message from Stalin was as they say, “short and sweet.” It got its point across without rambling on and on.
In my opinion, I feel as if Joseph Stalin got the better of the exchange. I don’t agree with what Stalin stood for, or did, but I feel as if he argued a stronger point. Churchill had a very attention-grabbing argument, threatening another war, but Stalin had a more backed up and evident argument. Stalin did an excellent job retaliating against the long and great speech by Churchill.
Churchill's tone of his speech was a lot more inspiring. It's center subject was the unity of Europe and how they must join together in order to deteriorate the spread of Communism throughout Europe, in fact the whole world. The "Iron Curtain" which Churchill refers to is the dividing line between Europe. On one side you have the nations that are a part of NATO and the other are joined together by the Warsaw pact.He brings Nationalism as one of his main themes as he says the existence of the world relies on Europe stopping the spread of communism. Stalin then reputes that Churchill is doing exactly what Hitler did. He is implying that Churchill's notion of nationalism is being taken to far as to turn them into a race such as Hitler did. He then says that they acting as Nazi's in ridding the world of the Soviet Communists. Stalin's tone was a lot more direct and called out Churchill completely. By making comparisons to the Nazi's Stalin was able to really make Churchill the point of attack.
ReplyDeleteI would say that Stalin's argument had a lot more hate and in terms of calling one another out, won. But Churchill's argument was a lot more intellectual and had more meaning behind his words rather than just someone who was on the defensive and just decided to associate Churchill with something terrible so that the people would think of him as a terrible person. So to the people who had intellect and read into Churchill's speech and Stalin's reply, they would say Churchill won. But someone who is not really educated and only knows of the Nazis being terrible people would think that Stalin won.
In Churchill's "Iron Curtain Speech", Churchill conveys the idea that the "Iron Curtain" is like an evil force which must be stopped at any means necessary. In order to defeat the "evil power", Churchill informs the audience that Europe requires unification in order that the Iron Curtain may be destroyed. He says that "the safety of the world" depends on it. With these words, Churchill makes it seem like the Western Powers are the "good" side, which, as in all movies about this sort of thing, must defeat the "bad" side in the end. In fact, Churchill goes on to say that they "hold the power to save the future", further adding to the heroic sense of the epic battle between the Western Powers and the Soviet Union.
ReplyDeleteIn his rebuttal, Stalin astonishingly compares Churchill’s position as similar to Hitler’s was in WWII. He states that Churchill, like Hitler, “began to set war loose by announcing his racial theory.” Whereas Hitler believes Germans are superior, Stalin says that Churchill believes that those that speak the English language are superior. He then goes on to say that the influence of Communism is growing because during the “hard years of mastery of fascism in Europe”, Communists became “reliable, daring, and self-sacrificing fighters” against fascists. Stalin’s overall tone in this speech is one of defense, rather than one of an assertive tone.
Overall, I believe Churchill gets the better in the exchange for the sole reason of expressing his thoughts in a way that inspires the people who listen to it to believe in him. Stalin’s speech, however, has a tone that denotes a sad attempt at getting back at Churchill by making outrageous accusations of his similarity to Hitler.
Winston Churchill was concerned about Stalin and the Soviet Union spreading Communisim and their overall "sphere of influence". Churchill describes the dangers of this expansion, "communist states of Eastertn Europe as Communist parties or fifth columns constitute a growing challenge and peril to Christian civilization". In Churchill's opinion, this communist expansion was harmful to Europe's harmony and peace. Therefore Churchill calls upon the "English-speaking world", particularly America, to reverse Communist expansion through the "establishment of conditions of freedom and democracy as rapidly as possible in all countries". Establishing democracy, in Churchill's opinion would alleviate the evil, oppressive, freedom-restricting expansion of the USSR.
ReplyDeleteStalin lashed out at Churchill in his response speech. Although Stalin makes logical arguments for Soviet expansion, he also makes outrageous and irrational comparisons between Hitler and Churchill. After World War II, the Soviet Union must have felt insecure after all the loss of life, Stalin states his "desire to ensure its [the USSR's] security for the future", but Stalin also felt entitled for more land and power after losing "men several times more than Britain and the United States together". Stalin clearly had strong ambitions to expand. While these arguments sound logical, Stalin's link between Churchill's intentions and those of Hitler are grossly flawed. Stalin stated, its hard to say if he actually believed this argument since it seems like an excuse driven by emotion to drive the war-torn people of Europe in his favor, that Churchill wanted the "English-speaking" race to "rule over the remaining nations of the world" for the mere fact that they speak English. Stalin's accusation certainly reflects Britain's imperial past of Social Darwinism, but in reality, Churchill simply wanted America's aid, not some sort of Aryan domination of Europe.
In my opinion, Stalin's speech appears more powerful and affective to a 1946 European audience, considering the Soviet Union recently lost such a vast amount of soldiers and resources in their fight against Hitler.
From a modern, American standpoint, I would clearly agree with Churchill because Stalin's irrational, emotion-driven attempts to link Churchill to Hitler seem outrageous, and also as history proved, Communism is inherently flawed, and the Soviet sphere of influence was, as Churchill so truthfully put it, "evil".
Churchill speaks with a heroic "i'm saving the world" tone while Stalin's tone is more of an attack towards Churchill. Churchill sees harm in Soviet expansion and thinks it would benefit the entire world if they would unify with the rest of Europe. Churchill says Russia desires not war but "the fruits of war and the indefinite expansion of their power and doctrines." By saying this he is saying that Russia is becoming dangerous, because similar to what Hitler did, they are forcefully spreading their power, and it is based on english speaking people being dominant. His solution is a settlement, and the breaking down of the "iron curtain" that is separating Russia from the rest of Europe. He claims this would prevent another world war such as the 2nd one that he claimed was completely avoidable. Stalin accuses Churchill of using a racial theory similar to Hitler's and labels Russia's "peaceful" aspirations to encourage other nations be loyal to them is simply a struggle for power and a false attempt to liberate Europe. He claims that Communism is spreading more naturally than Churchill may think, using the US as an example of it at an early stage. Overall i think Churchill had a better speech because, while Stalin just attacked him, Churchill offered solutions to the main concern and that is another world war. He offers more constructive ways to avoid it.
ReplyDeleteIn Winston Churchill's speech, he explains ways to prevent the war, how he feels about Russia as a country, and what the United States should do to help prevent the War. Churchill says that U.S. is the pinnacle of world power. by this he means the U.S. is the country which should have the most impact on the prevention of a war with the Russians. To show how his speech is in good taste, he begins talking about the Russians by expressing his admiration for them, a clear sign that he does not wish to anger the Russian Country. His tone is one of calmness in the face of angering the Russians, but sternness in the face of attempting to get the U.N. and America to make sure a World War 3 does not occur. Stalins speech is a mere ignorant and unintelligent response to Churchill's speech. He slanders the underlying meaning of his speech, accusing Churchill of being racist and claiming the English speaking countries the best, when in reality he explaining what the Allied European countries must do so millions more innocent people don't die or get punished for nothing. Comparing the Allied forces to the Nazi party on any level is in bad taste, when Churchill's speech was very respectful and well written. Stalins accusations that the European English speaking country wish to control every other country, when all they clearly want to do is help them. To an educated monkey Churchill gets the better exchange. This is obvious because Stalins arguments and comebacks, in a sense, are very petty because of the childish, and immature accusations. Grant it Stalins speech was much more specific, something Brandon smith brought up but the specificity of gives it its petty arguments. All in all Churchill's speech seemed to be more well written, and less of an attack toward the Soviets, and more a guideline for the U.S., while Stalins was all about attacking and only gave false accusations toward the "English speaking countries".
ReplyDeleteThe Iron Curtain Speech given by Winston Churchill is one that implores the help of the American people in order to band together with England to avoid a new world war. He is asking for help so that the migtht of the two combined nations is so great and powerful that Stalin will respect them. Thus preventing a disastrous war that would ravage Europe much as the other two had. Churchill's tone is one that sets a mood of strength, confidence, and power but also one of unity in the face of imminent danger and sadness. Churchill is confident in the ability of the nations to defeat Stalin and maintain order and peace to unify and make Europe whole again. He is also very aware of the impending danger however and is sad to be in a position where it is necessary to prepare for such a war.
ReplyDeleteStalin's response to Churchill's speech is one that seems almost like propoganda. He tries to set the British and Americans off as the "Bad Guys" by comparing Churchill and his rally for help to hitler and his nazi rallies. Stalin's speech spills over with confidence that he will be the victor in war. And also at the same time its theme is one that demeans the American and English people. It states that the communist russia will spread and expand exponentially and can not be stopped. His confidence in the power of Soviet Russia is so tremendous that he has no doubt that he will win the war and then be able to expand and spread his ideas and his rule over more of europe. In my oppinion Churchill got the better of the exchange because through his speech actual benefits to the cause of defeating Stalin will occur such as more American support in the War. As opposed to Stalin being over confident and thinking the he can rely only on himself and his trusted Soviet Army.
Churchill and Stalin use differing tones to get their message across. Churchill presents a logical argument stressing the independence and freedom of all countries. In retaliation Stalin lashes back with an emotion driven response aimed at devaluing Churchill and telling the public he believes Churchill is trying to do anything he can to be the supreme ruler of the world by comparing him to Hitler. The tone of each of these speeches show the type of government that each person ran. Churchill in his speech gave a logical argument hoping that the Russians will join the alliance and give freedom to all the countries they control. Stalin attempts to scare all of the supporters of Churchill with propaganda comparing him to Hitler much like he used fear and terror to control Russia.
ReplyDeleteChurchills main concern in his speech is the fact that Russia is forcing other countries to accept their form of government. Russia is taking away the freedoms that countries such as America and Britain gave their citizens. Churchill is concerned that this "iron curtain", the region that is under control of Russia, could turn into a problem as they attempt to push west causing a third world war that would only bring more destruction to an already demolished Europe. Churchill proposes that Russia join the NATO and help to rebuild Europe.
Stalins retaliatory speech compares Churchill to Hitler. Stalin says that Churchill is singling out non-English speaking countries just as Hitler did to the Jews. Stalin says that Churchill is asking for Russia to join NATO as an inferior, where as in actuality Churchill asks for Russia to join as an equal member. Again none of this is surprising as the government Stalin leads is based on propaganda and the distortion of the truth. Stalin also implies that Churchill is asking Russia to give the countries it controls freedom so that those countries will have the freedom turn against Russia. Stalin ends by saying that the rise of communism is natural and that the public favors communism over democracy.
In his “Iron Curtain” speech, Winston Churchill outlines the dire situation of modern Europe and the necessary actions that need to be taken. There is throughout his speech an underlying tone of nationalism which is intended to instill patriotism within the reader. It is a duty, as an “English speaking people”, to preserve the peace and unity of the Western world. He describes the “iron curtain” that has divided Europe into communist and democratic countries. However, in liberating these nations, Russia is not to be seen as a hostile enemy. Churchill does not speak of cleansing the Russian stain on Europe, but rather of “resolving” various differences. He states that, “’I have a strong admiration and regard for the valiant Russian people”. Furthermore he does not view them as brutish or backwards, instead sympathizing with their similarities. In fact, he believes that Soviet Russia does not desire war either, simply the prosperity that accompanies it. Near the end of his speech, Churchill takes on a rather different tone. He begins to reprimand the United Nations for not heeding his warning of World War II. He claims that he should now be listened to, as he is clearly right in such matters.
ReplyDeleteJosef Stalin, in response to Churchill’s speech, compares Churchill’s nationalistic attempt at inspiring the Western people to Hitler rallying the Nazis. He finds Churchill to be alienating the Russian people while subsequently promoting the superiority of the English speaking race. Stalin also takes offense to the accusation of “expansionist tendencies”. In fact, after having lost over seven million people, Russia was simply securing the surrounding territories in precaution for another war. Personally, I believe that Stalin got the better of the exchange. By raising the English speaking people above others, Churchill had in fact resembled Hitler. A horrific ordeal for the whole of Europe, Stalin’s allusion to World War II was an ingenious political tactic. The mere thought of another Nazi regime would prompt any nation into abandoning Churchill.
Churchill's iron curtain speech and the response by Stalin would set the tone for the heated rhetoric that went on to define the Cold War. Winston Churchill's speech advocates for a complete and unified Europe in which no country is an outcast. Churchill knew that Germany's post WWI seclusion and angst, over disrespect from the European community,produced an environment in which Hitler's ideas would be embraced. The main point of Churchill's speech is to point out the flaws of communism and soviet rule in an effort to prevent future wars and future human rights violations. His tone is accusative, arguing that the soviet union desires expansion of their powers and doctrines. Churchill wishes to prevent soviet expansion because he believes it will lead to an inevitable war. He had already lived through two and believed Europe would not survive a third. Stalin's response however was to accuse Churchill of war mongering and promoting the English race as the superior race. Stalin very adamantly argues that Churchill believes the English race should rule the world, comparing him directly to Hitler. This belief leads Stalin to argue that Churchill is not in fact seeking independent freedom for all nations but rather seeking weaker nations so that they may be more easily overtaken. Stalin goes on to defend communist ideals stating that communism is a natural movement, and that its power can be seen even in England where left leaning labor party members were victorious over Churchill. In my opinion it is very clear that Churchill gets the better exchange. Churchill's speech clearly advocates for prolonged peace throughout Europe and clearly shows that Moscow's influence over Eastern Europe could only have a negative effect on this goal. Stalin's response however seems angry and hurried. Stalin quickly rushes to defend his ideology, which time had already shown was flawed. Instead of just arguing the motives of Soviet expansion, Stalin goes on the offensive. The claims of war mongering and social Darwinist views come of as absurd, when you thing of the man he is accusing. Churchill won this verbal argument but he would not achieve his goal of liberating Eastern Europe. Moscow's influence and power was to great to overcome and they successfully were able to place Eastern Europe under the iron curtain.
ReplyDeleteChurchill hints at his view of the ideal policy against communism in the "iron curtain speech"; the obligation of the united states to spread its ideals to europe, and how neither appeasment or war is the correct policy to hold against Communism. Churchill adresses the obligation of the united states with the phrase, "For with this primacy in power[of the United States] is also joined an awe-inspiring accountability to the future." This idea is a moral tenant even in today's culture as shown by Uncle Ben in Spidermen, "With great power comes great responsibility." Churchill wanted The United states to spread democracy and capitalism throughout Europe. Churchill goes on to explain how the United States let communism spread in Europe. Churchill rejects the appeasement policy, still fresh in the world's mind for its failure when enacted against Hitler. Churchil condemns the appeasement policy with the statement, "They will not be removed by mere waiting to see what happens; nor will they be removed by a policy of appeasement." Churchill also does not believe war is the answer, which is made apparent when he says, "I repulse the idea that a new war is inevitable." Churchill proposing that democracy and capitalism should not engage in war, destroy communism, or let it run its course freely, enact an appeasment policy similar to that of France and Britain, suggests that communism must simply be contained until it burns itself out.
ReplyDeleteStalin's "Reply to Churchil" serves as both a defence to Churchill's critisizm, and a blatant attack of Churchill and capitalism/democracy. Stalin defends Communism by claiming that Churchills alligations of Communism being spread due to ambition are false because in reality the expansion owes itself to the embraced qualites of, "reliable, daring and self-sacrificing fighters." Earlier in this rebuttle Stalin attacks Churchill by comparing him to Hitler in hopes of equating Hitler, the most hated entity at the time, to democracy and Churchill. one is reminded remarkably of Hitler and his friends." He bases this claim by assuming that Churchill is racist when he writes, "English-Speaking Nations." This accusation hold no truth since Churchill specified "English-Speaking" nations because he realized at the time those were the only nations of considerable power which could help the cause at the time. Stalins response does not appeal to reason but to Europes emotion, more specifically its frustration with Hitler, to promote his own agenda
After reading both Churchill's, Iron Curtain and Stalin's response to it I must say that Churchill really does have a point and that Stalin however is incorrect. Towards the beginning Churchill states, "From Stettin in the Baltic to Trieste in the Adriatic an iron curtain has descended across the Continent. Behind that line lie all the capitals of the ancient states of Central and Eastern Europe. Warsaw, Berlin, Prague, Vienna, Budapest, Belgrade, Bucharest and Sofia; all these famous cities and the populations around them lie in what I must call the Soviet sphere, and all are subject, in one form or another, not only to Soviet influence but to a very high and in some cases increasing measure of control from Moscow." He is absolutely correct all these newly acquired territory the Russians have attained are now under communist rule and now can't vote for themselves new leaders. It makes just about no difference between WWII and post WWII because there is still another government and still more mass murders committed by Stalin's KGB. Churchill later on goes on to say, "But what we have to consider here today while time remains, is the permanent prevention of war and the establishment of conditions of freedom and democracy as rapidly as possible in all countries. Our difficulties and dangers will not be removed by closing our eyes to them. They will not be removed by mere waiting to see what happens; nor will they be removed by a policy of appeasement." While Churchill wants the rapid spread of democracy throughout all the other countries seems a little extreme, the countries freed from the Nazi regime should be allowed to choose for themselves what government they would prefer to have. On the other hand Stalin's response to Churchill was that they didn't force communism upon the other countries it just accidentally got there. Additionally, he says that there is no difference between Hitler saying all Germans are better and Churchill saying that only speaking English and democracy are proven the best. Specifically, Stalin says, "In this respect, one is reminded remarkably of Hitler and his friends. Hitler began to set war loose by announcing his racial theory, declaring that only people speaking the German language represent a fully valuable nation. Mr. Churchill begins to set war loose, also by a racial theory, maintaining that only nations speaking the English language are fully valuable nations, called upon to decide the destinies of the entire world." Furthermore, in Stalin's statement that communism just happened to spread throughout eastern Europe he says, "Mr. Churchill wanders around the truth when he speaks of the growth of the influence of the Communist parties in Eastern Europe.... The growth of the influence of communism cannot be considered accidental. It is a normal function. The influence of the Communists grew because during the hard years of the mastery of fascism in Europe, Communists slowed themselves to be reliable, daring and self-sacrificing fighters against fascist regimes for the liberty of peoples." Clearly, Stalin is just wrong and tries to justify him spreading communism by saying that its an accident and declaring that Churchill believes Russians are inferior. In my opinion, Churchill gives better ideas and an overall better argument. Mainly because he is write in that the freed countries should be able to choose for themselves. Finally, Stalin is wrong and eventually these two beliefs evolve into what is known as The Cold War.
ReplyDeleteChurchill comes off as firm and matter of fact. He tries to be sympathetic and understanding of Stalin but can't stand for the injustice that he sees going on. Churchill says, "I have a strong admiration and regard for the valiant Russian people and for my wartime comrade, Marshal Stalin," in hopes of appeasing Stalin and not coming across as disrespectful. Churchill goes on to tell the facts of the situation. He calls the elections in the satellite nations a fraud and that there is no democracy going on there. He says that if the British turn a blind eye to what is going on, it will only exacerbate the situation. It is time in Churchill's eyes to take a stand. Churchill also wants to follow the treaties and protocol of the United Nations as to not start any extra conflict.
ReplyDeleteStalin's reply is extremely defensive. He was not fooled by Churchill's use of words like friends and allies. He calls Churchill a liar whose courage stems from the fact that he has the United States in his back pocket just in case of conflict. He says communism is spreading because it is superior, not because of corruption. He calls to the common people that Churchill thinks they are simpletons and Churchill thinks he is better than you. He even goes as far as calling Churchill Hitler, who thinks his Brits are superior to the Russians. Stalin is very angry about Churchill's statement and is willing to start something with the British but in the back of his mind knows not to get them to the point of war because the USA and their atom bomb could be on the way.
I believe Churchill got the better in Stalin because Churchill is non-confrontational and tells the facts. Stalin's response is poor because if the words of Churchill didn't cut deep and resonate to the world, he wouldn't have to defend himself in such an angry and radical way.
At the close of WWII, it is clear that the Western European mindset vastly differed from the Soviet attitude. The West, primarily composed of the USA and UK, sought to restore the balance to Post-War Europe by maintaining peace. The Soviets, on the other hand, wanted to spread Communism throughout Europe by gathering more land. The conflict of interests between the two entities is exemplified in Winston Churchill's speech and Joseph Stalin's rebuttal.
ReplyDeleteWith his "Iron Curtain" speech, Winston Churchill diplomatically asserts that the West has no tolerance for the violence that will accompany the expanision of Communism. Although the speech has undertones of British nationalism and Western bravado, Churchill states that he will stop the Iron Curtain's growth because "no nation shall be outcast." With this statement, Churchill demonstrates that he understands that isolationism is the cause of the two World Wars. The speech, while it was intended to evoke emotions of British patriotism, was Churchill's unbegrudging way of letting Europe know that he would not allow history to repeat itself because of a clash of ideologies.
While Churchill's speech was intended to promote security adn peace, Joseph Stalin twists Churchill's words in order to create fear and inspire physical action against the West. By comparing Churchill to Hitler, Stalin suggests that that Russia must take action to stop history from repeating itself. Stalin connects the subtle nationalism within the text of Churchill's speech to the elitism of Hitler. However, the flaw of Stalin's arguement is that the democratic government that Churchill ran was far different that than the totalitarian society of Hitler that strongly resembles Stalin's Soviet Russia. Furthermore, Stalin fails to acknowledge that his totalitarian society is forced upon his people when he says that "Common people, too, have their opinions and their own politics. And they know how to stand up for themselves." While trying to compare Churchill to Hitler in order to compel his people to fight, Stalin fails to recognize that although his society promotes a different system, it is directly parallel to Hitler's Nazi Germany.
I believe wholeheartedly in the message that Winston Churchill is trying to convey. The shadow of the USA's military might is necessary to promote peace. It is almost paradoxical to think that in Europe guns are needed to maintain peace. While both parties emphasize on history not being repeated, it is Churchill's assertation and plan that is most logical and void of the desire for more land. I agree with Churchill because he promotes peace during a time when Europe needs it most, while I reject Stalin's rebuttal because I believe that he has alterior motives and would be detrimental to the progress of mid 20th century Europe.
Winston Churchill states in his speech that the “Iron Curtain” separating the different parts of Europe must be torn down in an attempt to unify Europe as a whole. He believes that unless the Russians stop their notion of Communism, a war will ensue. He does not want this at all, however, we wants the complete opposite. Churchill believes it would be best if the Russians would just surrender to the English-speaking people (Americans and British). Churchill presents a persistent tone in his speech, believing that is the best way to spread democracy to Eastern Europe and remove the “Iron Curtain.” Churchill does not wish to cause conflict, he only wishes for peace.
ReplyDeleteStalin, in response to Churchill’s speech, compares Churchill to Hitler in order to stop the Russian people from wanting to join Western Europe. Stalin wishes to enforce the Iron Curtain and make it stronger. He wants to do this because he believes Churchill is a racist and believes the English-speaking people are superior to the Russians. Stalin also tries to influence the Eastern European populations’ minds by sharing with them the suffering Western Europe has caused them. He also falsely promotes Communism and makes it seem like an idealized notion.
In my opinion, I believe that Churchill has a better idea, but Stalin gets the better of the exchange. His aggressive and influential points make people believe that what he is saying about Churchill and Western Europe is true. This in turn will cause them to think twice about uniting under one nation.
Both Winston Churchill's "Iron Curtain Speech" and Joseph Stalin's response clearly represent the ideology and strategic approach behind each side of Europe at the time.
ReplyDeleteWinston Churchill presents a passive argument that focuses on prevention and peace, as he hopes to spare Europe from a third major war. Churchill views the U.S. as a valuable and perhaps necessary key to the Allies' cause and uses nationalism to inflict a sense of urgency within the Americans. Churchill states, "...you [Americans] must feel not only the sense of duty done, but also you must feel anxiety lest you fall below the level of achievement," which outlines his expectations for America. In addition to this instilled sense of duty, Churchill further petitions his cause by presenting a quasi-ultimatum, claiming that if America doesn't play its expected role, history (specifically WWII) will repeat itself. This quasi-ultimatum, along with the rest of Churchill's speech, however, isn't explicitly expressed and is only implied through an extrapolation of the previous decade. For example, Churchill says, "[WWII] could have been prevented...without the firing of a single shot,...but no one would listen and one by one we were all sucked into the awful whirlpool. Through this idea, Churchill implies that a similar scenario exists in 1946, and America must listen to Churchill in order to prevent another maelstrom of disaster that could literally mark the end of mankind with the recent birth of nuclear warfare. Yet, although clear about the past, Churchill seems to avoid discussing the present in an attempt to please, or at the very least, not anger his dictatorial counterpart, Joseph Stalin. He even goes on to whimper, "I have a strong admiration and regard for the valiant Russian people and for my wartime comrade, Marshal Stalin." This passive technique hinders Churchill's ability to express his true belief behind the evolving tensions between the West and the East and creates a gap in the effectiveness of the speech as a whole.
Joseph Stalin, on the other hand, illustrates a vivid, aggressive, and explicit picture of his view in his response to Churchill's "Iron Curtain Speech." In a typical totalitarian manner, Stalin taps into the inner emotions of Europeans in his speech by comparing Churchill to Hitler, which therefore serves as a form of propaganda. At the time, Europe had recently experienced, as Churchill describes, a "whirlpool" of death and destruction sparked by the notorious fascist leader Adolf Hitler. By comparing the soon-to-be NATO to Nazi Germany, Stalin portrays Western Europe in an extremely negative manner. He states, "...one is reminded remarkably of Hitler and his friends [when thinking of Churchill and his allies]," and later marks Churchill's praise of English speaking countries identical to "German racial theory...that the Germans, as the only fully valuable nation, must rule over other nations." The truth behind notion, however, like certain forms of propaganda, must be questioned. Although the Allies and the Soviet Union are immensely different, their differences are overshadowed by one common enemy: the Nazis. The illogical notion that Churchill and the allies are like “Hitler and his friends” serves as the foundation for Stalin's argument, and accordingly renders Stalin's speech false.
Although Churchill avoided the truth in some aspects of his speech in a passive attempt to please Stalin, he presents a more effective and more coherent speech. The fact that Stalin's response isn't logically true nullifies any advantage of being explicit, clear, and straight to the point. For this reason, Churchill, "[got] the better of the exchange."
Churchill's iron curtain speech is about uniting all the counties of Europe and The United States of America against Stalins communist empire. Churchill trys to gain the support of America in this battle against Stalin because he knows that without them he has no chance. Churchill starts of by sucking up to the US by calling them the "pinnacle of world power". He then goes on to talk about English speaking people and how they have to join forces to maintain peace, but that the only way they can do this is by being prepared for war. Churchill states that the Russians have no respect for weakness so if they sense it they will have no hesitation to act quickly and add yet another country to their empire. This expantion is exactly what Churchill wants to stop. The whole tone of his speech is one of gathering together to fight the evil side, however there is a hint of worryness to Churchills words to try to get the US to act quickly before the soviets make their first move. As Churchill said They do not want war but only the fruits of war, so if the US helps the rest of Europe there will be no expantion.
ReplyDeleteStolin's response to Churchill had a sort of mocking tone to it. He compared Churchill talking about the "English speaking people" to Hitler talking about the "Germans". Just think of that, he is making a valid argument comparing the most hated person in the world to another political rival. This comparison in its self completely crushes Churchills whole speech because now the gathering of the "English people" sounds just like the Nazis. Stolin never mentions war either this makes Churchill sound like the radical and the one who is blood thirsty. It is simple to me when Stolin compared Churchill to Hitler it was over just like kobe hitting a left handed fade away three as the shot clock runs out. Its a dagger it sends chills down your spine. Although i agree with Churchill if i came at it from a completely un bias view i would have to say Stolin gave a better argument although half of it my be pure propaganda.
Churchill's Iron Curtain Speech is given in an anxious, nervous manner because his speech is a warning for Americans. In his speech, Churchill discusses the fact that America has the greatest influence and power of all nations of the world, and that these must be used to prevent Soviet expansion. Churchill recognizes that they have already had to participate in both World Wars, and that they have suffered many casualties, but he states that the communist expansion is a "growing challenge" that must be contained. Moreover, he states that the "safety of the world requires a unity in Europe," and that he "repulse[s] the idea that a new war is inevitable," since Russia is not interested in fighting a war, but in profiting from the "fruits of war and the indefinite expansion of their power and doctrines."
ReplyDeleteStalin's speech, on the other hand, is an angry response. He accuses Churchill of spreading his views in a manner similar to Hitler's. He claims that the two both claim superiority, so his system will also bring about evil. And once again, Stalin claims that communism is natural and good.
I believe that Churchill got the better exchange, simply because he reached out to the people first. Since he expressed his views earlier, Stalin's retaliation had little effect in convincing foreigners, especially since Churchill also included sections about how the Americans are superior, where Stalin obviously did not.
In Churchill’s speech, he uses the term “iron curtain” to describe the division of Eastern from Western Europe. It was created by the Soviet Union after the World War II. He tries to show America and Britain the major devastation of the war, and how it could have been prevented. His main purpose was to show the world the dangers of Communism, and the prevention of another major war. “There never was a war in history easier to prevent by timely action than the one which has just desolated such great areas of the globe.” He goes on to say that Germany’s expansion was the cause of the war could have been prevented. At the beginning of his speech, he states that the United States stands at a pinnacle of world power. By stating this, he shows Americans that it is their time to work together and bring unity to Europe. Churchill understands the need for unity for the establishment of peace in Europe. “The safety of the world, ladies and gentlemen, requires a unity in Europe…” Along with the need of major European leaders after the war and the prompting points of this inspirational speech, the modern UN came into existence. One of his most striking comments, Stalin accuses Churchill of advocating characteristics of Hitler. He states that Churchill only believes that “nations speaking the English nations are fully valuable nations, called upon to decide the destinies of the entire world.” This is the categorization of a certain group of people, specifically, the English speaking nations. By comparing Churchill to Hitler, he attempts to give him a bad reputation, while also giving credit to his own argument. He emphasizes the benefit of the Soviet Union. He advocates communism, making it seem good for the nations of Europe. “Mr. Churchill wanders around the truth when he speaks of the growth of the influence of the Communist parties in Eastern Europe…..The growth of the influence of communism cannot be considered accidental. It is a normal function. The influence of the Communists grew because during the hard years of the mastery of fascism in Europe, Communists slowed themselves to be reliable, daring and self-sacrificing fighters against fascist regimes for the liberty of peoples.” In my opinion, Churchill gets the better of the exchange. While Stalin only attacks Churchill and attempts to twist around his words, Churchill looks for the benefit of Europe. While Stalin tries to enforce his communist ways, Churchill warns Europe of devastation through war. Churchill even goes on to suggest an answer through the unification of Europe.
ReplyDeleteWinston Churchill explains in his "Iron Curtain" speech that action must be taken immediately to counter the USSR's attempt to obtain more nations and spread communism throughout Europe. To support his claim, Churchill refers to his past warning of the growing power of Nazi Germany when he states "Last time I saw it all coming and I cried aloud to my own fellow countrymen and to the world, but no one paid any attention" (Churchill). He further criticizes England's passive decisions regarding Hitler and Nazi Germany when he declares, "Ourdifficulties and dangers will not be removed by closing our eyes to them. They will not be removed by mere waiting to see what happens; nor will they be removed by a policy of appeasement" (Churchill). Certainly, these excerpts show Churchill's attempt to rally England and other Western nations to stand up to the Soviet Union, and not allow it to grow and mature to a point where it is unstoppable. In addition, Churchill does not accuse Russia of desiring a third war, however; he does claim that the USSR wanting "the fruits of war and the indefinite expansion of their power and doctrines" (Churchill). Churchill's plan for prohibiting the expansion of the Soviet Union is to establish "conditions of freedom and democracy as rapidly as possible in all countries" (Churchill). Clearly, Winston Churchill's belief in the superiority of democracy over communism shows why he advocated for the hasty establishment of democracy throughout the nations of Europe before they could be claimed by the evil forces of Soviet Russia.
ReplyDeleteIn Stalin's response to Churchill's "Iron Curtain" speech, Stalin accuses Churchill of being similar to HItler, and explains that the Soviet Union deserves to grow because of the effort and help that it supplied during the defeat of Nazi Germany. First, Stalin declares that Churchill is "remarkably" similar to Hitler because of his "racial theory, maintaining that only nations speaking the English language are fully valuable nations, called upon to decide the destinies of the entire world" (Stalin). Stalin makes a valid point in claiming that Churchill and Western Europe and the United States wish to spread its influence throughout Europe, however; the Western influence aims to liberate nations and establish democracies rather than oppress the citizens of nations and force them to live under a communist regime. On another note, Stalin argues that the USSR deserves to expand because of the the numerous men it lost while fighting Germany. In other words, Stalin claims that the USSR did more to win the war and lost more men than the United States and Western Europe, and therefor, it deserves to expand and obtain the nations which it helped protect from the monster of Nazi Germany. Churchill recognizes however, that the growth of the Soviet Union will only lead the oppression of more European citizens. Later in the speech, Stalin criticizes Churchill for looking down on common people, and "pretending to be their friend" (Stalin). Undoubtedly, Stalin's accusation displays an attempt to label Churchill as an elitist or a tyrant who disregards the thoughts thoughts and rights of citizens. What Stalin does not recognize is that he himself is the tyrant, and he is the type of leader that aims to oppress the people under his power.
ReplyDeleteChurchill's argument and speech is superior to Stalin's because Churchill provides factual evidence and exhibits his knowledge of recent history in attempt to enlighten Europe's people of the possibility of the reoccurrence of the establishment of a tyrannical and oppressive regime. Stalin replies to Churchill's speech by simply restating what Churchill said, but accusing Churchill instead of the USSR. In other words, Stalin declares that it is Churchill and the West's way of life and government that is similar to Hitler and Nazi Germany's because both are based upon a "racial theory" of superiority (Stalin). Obviously, this argument is futile because Churchill advocates the liberation of all nations throughout Europe, while Stalin, similar to the attempt of Hitler and Nazi Germany, aims to expand the Soviet Union, and spread communism and terror while oppressing the citizens of Europe.
In Winston Churchill's speech, He explains the necessary containment of the ideas Stalin brought to the soviet union. He hopes to accomplish this goal peacefully, preventing a third world war. This is clear because Churchill states that he believed World War II could have been resolved without using any violence. However, Churchill needed the U.S. as an ally because the imperialistic ways of Britain were coming to an end. Britian needed the U.S. to help pay for and support Britian. Churchhill believed that communism was breaking down the fundamentals of Western Society, however he disagreed with the appeasement policy. This is because Churchill foresaw Communism not working in Germany and therefore it would destroy itself. This idea did not require any action from the U.S. or Britain except for containment. He explains that Europe has been divided by an Iron Curtain, and that all Europeans need to strive to unify the country. Churchill hoped to inspire the United States to help Europeans create the unity he believed that Europe needed.
ReplyDeleteIn his response to Churchill's speech, Stalin takes an agressive stand against Churchill's remarks, while also inspiring sympathy from his audience. He states that the elitist society which churchill helped create resembles the ideas of superiority which Hitler spread across Europe. Stalin uses this to show to his audience how the ideas of Communism would help them. He explains that Churchill's society only values the efforts of the upper class, while communism focuses on the common working man. Stalin also shows his audience that because Churchill was voted out of office, that Stalin has better ideas for society and more people values his opinions. Stalin was also aware that Churchill needed the support of the united states to help contain communism, and therefore he saw the soviet union as more powerful then Britain. With this knowledge, Stalin sought out to expand communism in a similiar fashion that Hitler expanded his beliefs in the Aryan race.
in his speech, Churchhill shows his wish to become united with the Russians in Europe, and claims that the only way to avoid a third world war is to not avoid and sanction relations with the USSR. He quotes that he wanted to have lasting friendships with the Russians, because they had stuck through in the war together and the British were familiar with their plight. However, he describes the "Iron Curtain" that the Russians were putting about themselves, and that it divided the countries, almost surely setting path for a war. He feels that when the superior English show their military might, the Russisans would notice that and respect the. Stalin angrily retorts with his own speech, in where he compares Churchhill to Hitler, because he claimed that English speaking countries were better. He says the the Russians were pushed aside at everyturn, and in his speech stirred the nationalist feelings of his followers. He states that communism is growing, and is the best way to set up Europe, with the best sort of soldiers. Although he has great arguments and beats Churchhill with his romantic speech, Stalins dream of a communist Europe will never come true.
ReplyDeleteIn these two infamous speeches, the speakers have a war of words going on. For example, Churchills speech comes first and has a tone which wants peace, but will do anything to avoid another war. He realizes the necessity of the era and that unless they act correctly, there could very well be another war. He expresses the terror of the iron curtain which seperates nato from the warsaw pact and USSR. The main difference between Churchills statements and Stalins is that Stalin puts down Churchill. He accuses Churchill of putting his own citizens down and acting like they are incompetant. Stalin says that Churchill doesnt listen to the general will and doesnt put their opinions over his own. This is hypocritical in my opinion, seeing as Stalin doesnt do this himself, although he preaches that he does. In the end, I feel that Stalin had the best of the two because he was able to take subtle stabs at the countries of NATO. Churchill was almost too respectful to have a winning argument.
ReplyDeleteHarrison part 1----
ReplyDeleteWinston Churchill explains in his "Iron Curtain" speech that action must be taken immediately to counter the USSR's attempt to obtain more nations and spread communism throughout Europe. To support his claim, Churchill refers to his past warning of the growing power of Nazi Germany when he states "Last time I saw it all coming and I cried aloud to my own fellow countrymen and to the world, but no one paid any attention" (Churchill). He further criticizes England's passive decisions regarding Hitler and Nazi Germany when he declares, "Ourdifficulties and dangers will not be removed by closing our eyes to them. They will not be removed by mere waiting to see what happens; nor will they be removed by a policy of appeasement" (Churchill). Certainly, these excerpts show Churchill's attempt to rally England and other Western nations to stand up to the Soviet Union, and not allow it to grow and mature to a point where it is unstoppable. In addition, Churchill does not accuse Russia of desiring a third war, however; he does claim that the USSR wanting "the fruits of war and the indefinite expansion of their power and doctrines" (Churchill). Churchill's plan for prohibiting the expansion of the Soviet Union is to establish "conditions of freedom and democracy as rapidly as possible in all countries" (Churchill). Clearly, Winston Churchill's belief in the superiority of democracy over communism shows why he advocated for the hasty establishment of democracy throughout the nations of Europe before they could be claimed by the evil forces of Soviet Russia.
Harrison--part 2
ReplyDeleteIn Stalin's response to Churchill's "Iron Curtain" speech, Stalin accuses Churchill of being similar to HItler, and explains that the Soviet Union deserves to grow because of the effort and help that it supplied during the defeat of Nazi Germany. First, Stalin declares that Churchill is "remarkably" similar to Hitler because of his "racial theory, maintaining that only nations speaking the English language are fully valuable nations, called upon to decide the destinies of the entire world" (Stalin). Stalin makes a valid point in claiming that Churchill and Western Europe and the United States wish to spread its influence throughout Europe, however; the Western influence aims to liberate nations and establish democracies rather than oppress the citizens of nations and force them to live under a communist regime. On another note, Stalin argues that the USSR deserves to expand because of the the numerous men it lost while fighting Germany. In other words, Stalin claims that the USSR did more to win the war and lost more men than the United States and Western Europe, and therefor, it deserves to expand and obtain the nations which it helped protect from the monster of Nazi Germany. Churchill recognizes however, that the growth of the Soviet Union will only lead the oppression of more European citizens. Later in the speech, Stalin criticizes Churchill for looking down on common people, and "pretending to be their friend" (Stalin). Undoubtedly, Stalin's accusation displays an attempt to label Churchill as an elitist or a tyrant who disregards the thoughts thoughts and rights of citizens. What Stalin does not recognize is that he himself is the tyrant, and he is the type of leader that aims to oppress the people under his power.
Churchill's argument and speech is superior to Stalin's because Churchill provides factual evidence and exhibits his knowledge of recent history in attempt to enlighten Europe's people of the possibility of the reoccurrence of the establishment of a tyrannical and oppressive regime. Stalin replies to Churchill's speech by simply restating what Churchill said, but accusing Churchill instead of the USSR. In other words, Stalin declares that it is Churchill and the West's way of life and government that is similar to Hitler and Nazi Germany's because both are based upon a "racial theory" of superiority (Stalin). Obviously, this argument is futile because Churchill advocates the liberation of all nations throughout Europe, while Stalin, similar to the attempt of Hitler and Nazi Germany, aims to expand the Soviet Union, and spread communism and terror while oppressing the citizens of Europe.
Churchill's speech is addressing the expansion of communism. He speaks first of the historical accountability that the US and GB should be concerned with. Because the US is so powerful, it needs to take on some responsibility. Churchill says that its responsibility is to contain communism to provide the world with the opportunity to live well and free. Churchill is under the impression that he has it all figured out and that democracy is the best system. He says that communism is a threat to "christian civilization" which to me is a very arrogant statement. There is no way Stalin wouldn't respond to such a statement.
ReplyDeleteStalin's response was, "hey, churchill, you don't have it all figured out." He points out that the world is indebted to the USSR because of its battles with Germany. He states that countries have been naturally drawn to his system and that it is a good thing for the world.
I think that churchill provides a better statement. The two men have both spun their doctrines very well but to me Stalin's deception is more blatant. "How can one, without having lost one's reason, qualify these peaceful aspirations of the Soviet Union as "expansionist tendencies" of our Government?" This is a ridiculous quote by Stalin. His country has clearly exhibited expansionist tendencies.
Churchill is certainly arrogant, but I believe that what he says is true. the USA is very powerful and it is important for powerful nations to think in a morally conscious way.
In “The Iron Curtain”, Churchill makes an attempt to convince the Russians to break down the barriers they have set up and allow for the “Iron Curtain” to be broken down. He believes and preaches that the Russians must convert the communist government into a democracy rather than their current government. Churchill’s main concern is obtaining unity within Europe by breaking down the “Iron Curtain”. Churchill holds the English speaking countries of America and Britain among the highest powered and most honorable countries. He believes that the English speaking countries provide the most fair and equal opportunities to all people. Churchill addresses the Russians and their leader Marshal Stalin, stating that he wants to rebuild the friendship that both countries had before. Although he knows that Russia and England were allies and nothing more, he attempts a friendly plea to stop their communist ways to avoid war. Churchill claims that neutral organizations such as the United Nations are one of the only ways to maintain peace throughout Europe. According to Churchill, this peacefulness in Europe is necessary to the safety of the world. Churchill discusses how the old capitals of the world such as Warsaw, Berlin, Prague, Vienna, etc. are all in the Soviet sphere and how those countries and the surrounding populations are all subject to Russian rule. Churchill hits a sensitive subject when he begins to discuss the American involvement in the war. Churchill discusses the millions of young American boys whom were sent over to Europe to fight for their country. Churchill believes that if the situation continues as it is, then war is inevitable. He urges the countries of Europe to show their military strength to Russia. If this is done then Russia will admire the countries of Europe and join their governments in World Peace. Churchill ends this emotional speech by stating that if the Americans and British adhere the terms of the UN and continue without the goal of imperialism then “The high roads of the future will be clear”, proving the optimism Churchill has for the situation.
ReplyDeleteStalin angrily replies to Churchill by stating that he is a racist against all non-English speaking people. Stalin compares England and America to Hitler and his friends believing that this will help him gain support. Stalin claims that Churchill is choosing war by trying to instill this belief of English superiority. Stalin then proceeds to discuss all of the suffering that the other European countries have caused them. He does this trying to give reason for his unwillingness to unite with Europe. Stalin then discusses communism and how it is growing as a function and why other countries in Europe need to follow.
Between the two speeches Stalin most likely received a better result. Churchill gives a kind and peaceful speech urging a uniting of the countries in order to avoid war while Stalin follows him up with a verbal attack on Churchill and his allies. Stalin yells with fierce enthusiasm and highlights the ways which his people have been attacked before which would most likely help him to gain support.