Historian A: John Lewis Gaddis – Political/Strategic Perspective

'Gaddis argues that the Yalta and Potsdam conferences were primarily driven by the strategic interests of the Allied powers. He emphasizes the importance of negotiations in shaping the post-war order, highlighting Roosevelt’s desire to establish a peaceful world and Stalin’s aim to secure Soviet influence. Gaddis suggests that the agreements made were pragmatic compromises necessary for victory and stability, despite underlying tensions.'

Historian B: Anne Applebaum – Social/Cultural Perspective

'Applebaum contends that the conferences sowed the seeds of future conflict by ignoring the social and cultural consequences of their decisions. She stresses that the division of Germany and Eastern Europe led to decades of suffering and repression, arguing that the conferences prioritized political and strategic aims over the human cost. Her view highlights the long-term social impact of these diplomatic negotiations.'