EMERGENCE OF TWO POWER BLOCS AFTER 2nd WORLD WAR

The two superpowers were keen on expanding their spheres of influence in different parts of the world. Now the world sharply divided between the two alliance systems (Western & Eastern). This division started from Europe.

-> Small states linked themselves because they got the promise of protection weapons, and economic aid against their local rivals.

The North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) : Formulated in April, 1949 by USA with western countries of Europe. Purpose was to Armed security.

WARSAW Pact: Formulated in 1955 by Soviet Union with Eastern Countries of Europe. Purpose was to counter NATO forces.

Southeast Asian Treaty Organisation (SEATO) & Central Treaty Organisation (CENTO): Formulated by USA.