Why did the US plan to govern Korea with a US-Soviet trusteeship after WWII?
Racist views about Koreans being unfit for self-rule
Concerns over Korea’s postcolonial economic instability
Desire to ensure a pro-US government
What was the Joint Soviet-American Commission and why did it fail?
It was created to coordinate Korea’s independence, but it failed because both powers wanted a Korea loyal to themselves.
Why did Syngman Rhee and the KDP cooperate?
Rhee had nationalist credibility but no domestic base. The KDP (rich, often pro-Japanese landlords) had money and influence but no legitimacy.They used each other.
What was the Jeongeup Declaration and why is it significant?
Rhee stated South Korea should form a separate government. Significance: It's used as evidence he supported division for political gain.
What blocked armistice talks during the Korean War?
The issue of POW repatriation — especially whether prisoners should be forced to return.
How did Rhee manipulate the POW issue to secure the US-ROK Mutual Defense Treaty?
Rhee unilaterally released POWs, forcing the US to finalize a defense treaty in return for his cooperation with the armistice.
How did Rhee hinder democracy in South Korea?
Fraudulent elections, forced constitutional changes (1952, 1954), and coercion of opponents.
What triggered the April Revolution of 1960?
Fraud in the March 1960 election, and the death of a high school student in Masan during protests
What policy under Rhee laid foundations for later economic growth?
Land reform — redistributed land and compensated former landowners, who later invested in industry.
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