HOW DID FOREIGN POWERS GET INVOLVED IN THE ANGOLAN CIVIL WAR FROM 1974? Study Sources 2A, 2B, 2C and 2D and answer the questions that follow - NSC History - Question 2 - 2022 - Paper 1

Colonialism in the context of Angola in 1974 refers to Portugal's political and economic domination over Angola as a colony. This system involved the exploitation of Angola's resources and the suppression of the Angolan people's rights, where colonial powers wielded significant influence over local governance and economic activities.

Two aims of the Alvor Agreement included: 1) to 'promote peace' in Angola, creating a stable environment for future governance, and 2) to establish a transitional government that would manage Angola until elections could be held starting from 31 January 1975.

The three liberation movements in Angola—the MPLA, UNITA, and FNLA—failed to adhere to the Alvor Agreement due to ideological and leadership differences among them. They were unable to unite, partly because each believed it should lead the country independently, leading to tensions. Additionally, there were external influences and support from foreign powers that further complicated adherence to the agreement, making cooperation difficult.

This historical photograph was likely taken to document a significant event in the context of the ousting of colonial rule and the transition towards independence in Angola. The visual representation could serve to capture the sentiments and political atmosphere surrounding the liberation movements during this pivotal time.

The signing of the Alvor Agreement in 1975 was the result of a context that involved intensifying pressure for independence in Angola against the backdrop of decolonization movements across Africa. The changing political landscape in Portugal after the Carnation Revolution prompted negotiations among the Angolan liberation movements and Portuguese authorities, aiming to bring a peaceful resolution to the conflict.

Evidence in Source 2B supports Source 2A by illustrating how the three liberation movements were represented during the signing of the Alvor Agreement, emphasizing their commitment to form a transitional government. Source 2B depicts leaders from all three movements, indicating their agreement to work together, which is a reiteration of the unity described in Source 2A.

According to the source, Cuba supported the MPLA by providing military assistance, which included Cuban advisors and combat troops to train MPLA forces, enhancing their operational capacity during the civil conflict.

Two pieces of evidence indicating the Soviet Union's involvement include: 1) 'the aid of sophisticated Soviet weaponry to MPLA'; and 2) 'Russian Antonov-22 transport planes containing arms.' These illustrate the direct military support provided to the MPLA from the Soviet Union.

Cuba and the Soviet Union played significant roles in the Angolan Civil War by backing the MPLA. Cuba sent troops and military advisors to train MPLA forces, while the Soviet Union provided arms and tactical support, which included advanced weaponry, contributing to the MPLA's military capabilities against rival factions.

This source is useful for research as it provides firsthand accounts of military actions and the strategic support offered by Cuba and the Soviet Union. It highlights the geopolitical interests at play in Angola's civil conflict and offers vital details about the scale and nature of foreign involvement.