Impact of WW2

Economic Impact of WW2

• Complete devastation of infrastructure: Factories, houses, and transport systems destroyed due to bombing.
• Agricultural disaster: Harvests were lower than ever, famine occurred in many parts of the country.
• Economy shift: From production for consumption to production for warfare.
• Large loss of work force: Over 20 million deaths resulted in fewer workers available.

Political Impact of WW2

• Elevation of Stalin’s power: The victory over Nazi Germany enhanced his control over the USSR.
• Gradual western acceptance: Western countries recognised USSR as a key world power.
• Cold War onset: Political and ideological tensions with the United States that lasted for decades.
• Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania incorporation: These countries were incorporated into the USSR after the war.

Social Impact of WW2

• Increase in nationalism: The victory strengthened national identity and patriotism.
• Population decrease: A large proportion of the population was lost due to war casualties.
• Women’s roles: Millions of women were mobilised into the workforce and recruited as soldiers.
• Postwar depression: The loss of life and damage to cities led to widespread sadness and mourning.

Cultural Impact of WW2

• Propaganda: The victory was celebrated as a triumph of the Soviet system.
• Art and literature: Post-war creations focused on the heroic deeds of ordinary Soviet citizens.
• Persecution of religion: Church property was confiscated and religious communities persecuted.
• Education: The emphasis was placed on technological and scientific advancement to help the rebuilding process.