1948

1948 was a year in the 20th century, occurring shortly after the end of the Second World War. During this period, the nations that had fought in the war were engaged in economic reconstruction, and the international system was moving toward division into two competing blocs: the United States and its allies on one side, and the Soviet Union and its allies on the other. This time is considered the beginning of the intense phase of the Cold War.

The year was also marked by border changes and political shifts in the Middle East and South Asia, as well as progress in newly established international bodies, particularly the United Nations and its specialized agencies.

Global Politics

1948 was among the most significant events in the founding of the state of Israel, which was followed by conflict between Israel and Arab nations. That war resulted in large-scale displacement of Palestinians, though different parties continue to dispute the causes and consequences. That same year, Britain withdrew from the administration of Palestine.

Europe saw implementation of the economic aid programme that the United States had planned for reconstruction (the Marshall Plan). Berlin experienced a blockade by Soviet forces of the western sectors that the Allies controlled, leading the Allies to deliver supplies by airlift. This event intensified the division of Germany.

Asia and Other Regions

In South Asia, following the partition of India and Pakistan the previous year, conflict over Kashmir continued. Ceylon (now Sri Lanka) achieved independence. Korea was divided into two separate states, north and south, which would form the basis for the Korean War that broke out shortly thereafter.

In South Africa, the National Party won the election and began implementation of the apartheid system, which legally segregated people by race. In East Asia and Central Europe, several states transitioned to communist rule.

Organizations and Culture

The General Assembly of the United Nations adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, a document establishing the fundamental rights that every person possesses. Similarly, the World Health Organization (WHO) formally began its operations. In London, the Olympic Games were held, the first since the war.