in Europe

The Second World War was more catastrophic than the First World War. As many as million civilians were killed. In a planned genocide the Nazis killed million European Jews. Millions became homeless and refugees.

The War had destroyed factories and farm lands. Great cities such as Warsaw, Kiev, Tokyo and Berlin were totally devastated. Britain and France, which enjoyed prestige in international politics prior to the War, were badly undermined. The condition of post-war Europe appeared grave with shortages of food and raw materials.

There was by high rates of unemployment. The post-War material conditions challenged the laissez-faire attitude of capitalist countries. Many European countries turned into social welfare states committed to enhancing the conditions of its citizens. Not satisfied with the measures of the ruling governments the distressed masses tended to support socialist movements.

This was especially so in Greece and Turkey where the communist movement was active. The USSR supported parties and movements which were left-leaning. By the Soviets had established left wing governments in the countries of eastern Europe notably in