The Global Economic Impact of World War II AND

DID IT Tighten or Loosen THE Shackles of

Dependency?
ECHS 102
TUTORIAL TASK 2

1
 The purpose of this PRESENTATION is to critically
discuss the global economic impact of World War II and
analyse whether it tightened or loosened the shackles of
dependency. This pivotal event fundamentally reshaped
the world order, leaving an indelible mark on global
economies. Through a comprehensive examination of
key factors and indicators, we will shed light on the
complex relationship between dependency and World
War II.

2
 The Second World War was a watershed moment in African history, both
politically and economically. On the one hand, the war contributed to the rise of
African nationalism and the eventual decolonization of the continent. On the
other hand, the war also had a significant impact on the African economy, both
positive and negative During World War II, various countries, including the
United States, Canada, the Soviet Union, and Australia, employed women and
African Americans in various industries. In the US, women took on jobs in
manufacturing weapons, building ships, and producing food for soldiers and
civilians. In Canada, women filled in for men who had gone to war, and
Indigenous people benefited from labour shortages. In Australia, women worked
in factories, offices, and agriculture.

 One of the most significant economic impacts of World War II was the
destruction of infrastructure and productive capacity. The war caused
extensive damage to cities, factories, and transportation networks in many
countries. This destruction not only resulted in immediate economic losses but
also hindered post-war reconstruction efforts. The cost of rebuilding and
3 repairing infrastructure was enormous, putting a strain on the economies of
war-torn nations.
 Another economic impact of World War II was the loss of lives and
displacement of populations. Millions of people died during the war,
and millions more were forced to flee their homes as refugees. This
mass displacement disrupted labour markets and created a shortage of
skilled workers in many countries. The loss of human capital had
long-term. economic consequences, as it took years for affected
nations to recover and rebuild their workforce.

World War II also had a profound impact on global trade and

international economic relations. Many countries had to divert
resources and production towards the war effort, leading to a decline
in international trade. The war disrupted supply chains and disrupted
the flow of goods and services between nations. Additionally, many
countries-imposed trade barriers and protectionist policies to support
their war efforts, further limiting global trade.

4
  The war also led to significant changes in the global economic order.
The United States emerged as a dominant economic power after the
war, as it had largely been spared from the destruction that affected
Europe and Asia. The war boosted American industries, as they
supplied goods and materials to the Allies. This economic dominance
allowed the United States to shape the post-war economic order,
including the establishment of institutions like the International
Monetary Fund and the World Bank.
 Furthermore, World War II had long-term effects on the global
economy. The war accelerated technological advancements,
particularly in the fields of aviation, nuclear energy, and electronics.
These advancements laid the foundation for post-war economic growth
and development. Additionally, the war led to the emergence of new
industries and sectors, such as aerospace and defence, which
contributed to economic growth in the post-war period.
5
 WOELD WAR2 TIGHTENED THE Shackles of Dependency

World War II had a complex and contradictory impact on

Africa, with both tightening and loosening the shackles
of dependency in different ways. To understand this, we
must consider the various factors at play during this
period.
Prior to the war, Africa was largely under colonial rule,
with European powers controlling vast territories and
exploiting African resources for their economic benefit.
This colonial system created a deep dependency of
African economies on their European colonizers. The
outbreak of World War II disrupted this system, leading
to both positive and negative consequences for Africa

6
 One way in which World War II tightened the shackles of dependency in Africa was
through increased exploitation of resources. As the war escalated, the demand for
African resources, such as minerals, rubber, and timber, grew exponentially. European
powers heavily relied on these resources to sustain their war efforts, resulting in
intensified extraction and exploitation. This further entrenched Africa's role as a
provider of raw materials rather than a self-sufficient continent, reinforcing its
dependent status.
Furthermore, the war disrupted trade and transportation networks, making it difficult for
African countries to access international markets. This limited their ability to diversify
their economies and develop local industries. The lack of infrastructure and investment
in manufacturing sectors meant that Africa continued to rely on European imports for
finished goods, exacerbating its dependency on the colonial powers.
World War II had a mixed impact on Africa's dependency. It intensified resource
exploitation and disrupted trade, tightening dependency. However, it also provided
Africans with new opportunities, fostered empowerment, and weakened European
colonial powers, leading to the loosening of dependency. The war's long-term effects set
the stage for decolonization movements and eventual African nation independence.
Critical analysis and understanding of the global economic impact of World War II can
appreciate the profound transformations the world underwent during this tumultuous
period.

7
 World War II had a mixed impact on Africa's
dependency. It intensified resource exploitation and
disrupted trade, tightening dependency. However, it also
provided Africans with new opportunities, fostered
empowerment, and weakened European colonial powers,
leading to the loosening of dependency. The war's long-
term effects set the stage for decolonization movements
and eventual African nation independence. Critical
analysis and understanding of the global economic
impact of World War II can appreciate the profound
transformations the world underwent during this
tumultuous period

8
 THANK YOU