Understanding Alliances and Opposites in World War II: The Case of New Zealand and the United States

During World War II, the questioner raises an interesting point regarding the perception of the United States and the Soviet Union in terms of their attitudes towards New Zealand. While both these nations fought against the Axis powers, their relationships with New Zealand were quite different, and it's crucial to understand the context in which these perceptions evolved.

It is important to note that the post suggesting that the Americans were more anti-New Zealander and bad than the Russians who were pro-New Zealander is based on a misinterpretation of historical facts. This question reveals an ignorance or perhaps a provocation for a response, rather than a factual inquiry. The post assumes a false dichotomy, ignoring the complexities of wartime alliances and the roles different nations played.

Why New Zealand and the United States Formed a Strong Alliance

One of the main reasons why New Zealand and the United States formed a strong wartime alliance was the shared threat from Japan. The defense of the Pacific against the Japanese Empire was a critical objective. The few warships of the ABDA (American, British, Dutch, and Australian) fleet were overwhelmed in the early days of the war, making the United States’ Pacific Fleet the last line of defense.

Moreover, the American sailors stationed in Australia after the war were well received and enjoyed a positive experience. They were a significant part of local social structures and contributed to the general popularity of the United States in Australia. This cultural exchange and camaraderie played a crucial role in strengthening the alliance between New Zealand and the United States.

Role of the Soviet Union

In comparison, the Soviet Union's focus was on saving its own homeland. The Russian front was more intense, with a critical need for resources and support to continue the fight against the Axis powers. The Americans provided essential supplies and equipment, which the Soviets could not have obtained without. The Russians did not have the luxury of considering other nations within the scope of their immediate survival struggle. Consequently, their ability to think of New Zealand in a positive light was somewhat overshadowed by the sheer scale of their domestic conflict.

The Russification of the Soviet Union during the war also contributed to their focus being largely inward. Attempts by the Soviet Union to infiltrate social and political structures were more peripheral to their primary objective of survival against the German and Japanese threats. As a result, the Soviets did not have the same level of engagement or positive sentiment towards New Zealand as the Americans did.

Post-War Contributions and Impact

The post also highlights the lasting impact of American contributions to New Zealand’s infrastructure in the post-war era. The United States left behind numerous vehicles and other facilities that remained in use for several decades. In sharp contrast, the Soviet Union did not make similar contributions to New Zealand or any other Allied nation in the way the Americans did.

These contributions were not limited to post-war support but also included significant military and civilian cooperation during the war itself. The American commitment to New Zealand and Australia was a testament to the strength of the bond between these nations during one of the most tumultuous periods in history.

Conclusion

The perception that the United States was more anti-New Zealander and bad than the Russians who were pro-New Zealander is a simplification that overlooks the complexities of wartime alliances and national priorities. The American and Soviet roles in the war were inherently different, shaped by the unique circumstances and challenges each nation faced. Understanding these nuances is essential to gaining a comprehensive view of the wartime period and the enduring impact of these alliances on the nations involved.