Why do you think Atlee and Truman distrusted Stalin at the conference
There were a few reasons why Atlee and Truman may have distrusted Stalin at the conference:
1. Differences in political ideologies: Atlee and Truman were both democratically elected leaders from Western countries, while Stalin was a dictator who ruled over a communist regime. This fundamental difference in political beliefs may have led to suspicion and distrust between the leaders.
2. Stalin's past actions: Stalin's actions as the leader of the Soviet Union, including purges, human rights abuses, and aggressive territorial expansion, had caused concern among Western leaders. Atlee and Truman may have been wary of Stalin's intentions based on his previous behavior.
3. Lack of transparency: Stalin was known for being secretive and manipulative in his dealings with other world leaders. Atlee and Truman may have distrusted him because of his tendency to conceal information and pursue his own agenda without consulting with them.
4. Cold War tensions: The conference took place during the early days of the Cold War, when the United States and the Soviet Union were engaged in a geopolitical power struggle. Atlee and Truman may have viewed Stalin as a rival and adversary in this global conflict, leading to a lack of trust in his motives and actions.
Overall, a combination of political differences, past actions, lack of transparency, and wider Cold War tensions likely contributed to Atlee and Truman's distrust of Stalin at the conference.