Participants included Joseph Stalin (Soviet Union), Winston Churchill (United Kingdom) and Harry Truman (United States).
The conference set the political framework for the post-World War II period and determined the status of Germany and Europe after the unconditional surrender of Nazi Germany.
Here is a summary of the key points discussed and agreements reached at the Potsdam Conference:
1. Division of Germany: Germany was divided into four zones of occupation, each controlled by one of the four powers present: the United States, the United Kingdom, France, and the Soviet Union. Berlin, the capital, was also divided into four sectors. The city as a whole was to be governed by an Allied Control Council.
2. War reparations and economic policies: The Soviet Union was entitled to reparations from Germany in the form of industrial equipment and other assets, primarily from the Soviet-occupied zone. Germany's economy was to undergo significant restructuring and de-industrialization to prevent future militaristic capabilities.
3. Territorial changes: The conference approved changes in the borders of Poland and Germany. Poland's eastern border was shifted westward to include significant territories previously part of Germany, while its western border was set along the Oder and Neisse Rivers. Germany lost territory in the east, the north and the west.
4. Denazification and demilitarization: Germany was subjected to a process of "denazification" to eliminate Nazi influence and ideology. The country's military power was to be dismantled, and limitations were imposed on its industrial capacity, especially in the production of war-related materials.
5. Potsdam Declaration: The conference issued a joint declaration known as the Potsdam Declaration. It demanded Japan's unconditional surrender, threatening "prompt and utter destruction" if the demand wasn't met. This ultimatum ultimately led to Japan's surrender in August 1945.
6. Atomic Bomb and Its Impact: During the conference, Truman informed Stalin about the successful test of the atomic bomb in New Mexico, USA. Although the Soviet delegation was aware of the Manhattan Project, this revelation still created tension and raised concerns about future relations.
7. Council of Foreign Ministers: The creation of the Council of Foreign Ministers was agreed upon. This council, composed of the foreign ministers of the four powers, was tasked with drafting peace treaties and overseeing post-war European settlement.
8. Fate of War Criminals: The establishment of the International Military Tribunal was confirmed for trying Nazi leaders and high-ranking officials responsible for war crimes, crimes against humanity, and crimes against peace.
In conclusion, the Potsdam Conference brought together the leaders of the victorious powers and set the stage for the post-war reorganization of Europe. It played a crucial role in shaping the geopolitical landscape and political alignments that would influence international relations for decades.