The Atlantic Charter

1945

Agreed and signed by the United States of America and Great Britain on the 14 August, 1941, the Atlantic Charter was effectively a vision for global order after the conclusion of World War II. Though the United States had not yet entered the war, their involvement in the drafting of the treaty was crucial to its enactment and sealed its hegemonic position for the duration of the twentieth century. In brief, the eight points were:

No territorial gains are to be sought by the United States or the United Kingdom; Territorial adjustments must be in accord with the wishes of the peoples concerned; All peoples have a right to self-determination; Trade barriers are to be lowered; There is to be global economic cooperation and advancement of social welfare; Freedom from want and fear; Freedom of the seas; Disarmament of aggressor nations, post-war common disarmament. The Atlantic Charter was fully enforced after the defeat of Nazi Germany in 1945.