Dumbarton Oaks Conference Begins
August 21st, 1944
August 21st, 1944

How Long Ago?
80 years, 6 months, 22 days ago
Location
Washington, D.C., United States
Category
Politics & Government
War/Conflict
World War II
People
- Anthony Eden
- Vyacheslav Molotov
- Cordell Hull
- Wang Chung-hui
Links & References
Tags
Dumbarton Oaks Conference Begins
The Dumbarton Oaks Conference convened in Washington, D.C., with representatives from the United States, the Soviet Union, the United Kingdom, and China. The conference focused on creating a framework for international cooperation and the establishment of a new international organization aimed at rebuilding the world after World War II. The discussions centered around peace and security to prevent future conflicts, which laid the foundational principles for the United Nations.
Centered on creating a new international organization.
Involved major Allied powers: US, UK, USSR, and China.
Proposed mechanisms for collective security.
Set the groundwork for future United Nations charter.
What Happened?
The Dumbarton Oaks Conference was a pivotal gathering involving representatives from four major Allied powers: the United States, the United Kingdom, the Soviet Union, and China. It took place in Washington, D.C., from August 21 to October 7, 1944. The conference was primarily aimed at discussing the establishment of a new international organization, an essential step in ensuring global peace and cooperation in the aftermath of World War II. Delegates were tasked with proposing structures and mechanisms that would enable collective security and prevent the recurrence of devastating wars.
At the conference, key discussions revolved around the proposed organization’s charter, which would outline its functions, membership, and operational procedures. Notable figures included U.S. Secretary of State Cordell Hull, British Foreign Secretary Anthony Eden, Soviet Foreign Minister Vyacheslav Molotov, and Chinese Minister of Foreign Affairs Wang Chung-hui. Their negotiations were intense, reflecting the diverse interests and ideologies of the participating nations.
One of the significant outcomes of the conference was the agreement on certain principles that would guide the future operations of the United Nations. Although the specifics would undergo considerable revisions at later meetings, the groundwork laid during these discussions would eventually materialize into the formation of the UN. The conference also represented a crucial turning point for international diplomacy, highlighting the need for collaborative efforts to ensure lasting peace in a world emerging from the shadows of conflict.
Why Does it Matter?
The Dumbarton Oaks Conference is interesting as it marks a decisive moment in shaping international relations and efforts toward global governance. The principles established during the conference set the stage for the formation of the United Nations, an institution that continues to facilitate diplomatic dialogue and conflict resolution today. This conference reflects the recognized need for international cooperation to address common challenges, influencing how nations engage with one another.
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