QUESTION 2: WHY DID FOREIGN POWERS BECOME INVOLVED IN THE ANGOLAN CIVIL WAR BETWEEN 1974 AND 1976? Study Sources 2A, 2B, 2C and 2D and answer the questions that follow - NSC History - Question 2 - 2019 - Paper 1

America’s perspective of the Angolan conflict changed primarily due to the American defeat in Vietnam, which damaged its image. Consequently, the USA was anxious to find ways to exert American influence elsewhere, particularly in Africa to counteract Soviet expansion.

In this statement, Kissinger implies a strategic prioritization in U.S. foreign policy. While acknowledging the criticism regarding oil interests, he emphasizes a broader concern over the ideological spread of communism in Africa by the Soviets. It reflects a commitment to countering perceived threats to U.S. interests and influence in the region, highlighting the geopolitical dynamics of the Cold War era.

The cartoon portrays the USA's involvement in the Angolan Civil War as hypocritical, suggesting that the USA pretends to support freedom while actually prioritizing its own interests. It illustrates the American strategy of intervening in conflicts under the guise of promoting democracy, while significant financial and military implications reflect the hidden agendas behind such actions.

The phrase suggests a critical view of America's past military engagements, particularly Vietnam, implying that the same mistakes are being replicated in Angola. It highlights the irony and skepticism surrounding American intervention, associating it with destructive consequences, hence warning against repeating historical errors in foreign policy.

Source 2A highlights the USA's secret funding of FNLA and UNITA, indicating a proactive approach to counter communism. In contrast, Source 2B expresses skepticism, emphasizing the consequences of that involvement, including risks and potential reputational damage due to the ongoing tie of the USA to contentious foreign interventions. Together, they provide contrasting views on the motivations and implications of U.S. involvement.

According to Rhodes, South Africa's involvement in Angola was seen as a 'blunder' because it was perceived as overstepping and misjudging the situation in Angola, leading to greater regional instability and potential backlash against South Africa.

1. The growing influence of the MPLA led Vorster to perceive a threat to South Africa's political interests.
2. The need to bolster anti-communist strategies in the region prompted the intervention.

Vorster disliked communists due to their ideologies conflicting with his government's beliefs in capitalism and anti-communism policies. Additionally, the fear of communist expansion threatening regional stability and South Africa's control influenced his stance against communism.

The source presents firsthand information that lends some reliability; however, it is also one-sided, primarily reflecting the South African government's perspective. Some elements may be exaggerated or omit opposing viewpoints, thus suggesting caution in fully trusting it without cross-referencing with additional sources.

1. Cuba sent military advisors to assist in training and organizing independence movements.
2. Cuba provided technical assistance, including sending doctors and other professionals to help support national independence efforts.

Colonialism is the practice of controlling and occupying territories by foreign powers, often resulting in the imposition of foreign rule, culture, and economic dominance over the local population.

Cuba decided to send military units to Angola to support the MPLA in their fight against colonialism and imperialism, viewing it as a necessary step to combat anti-communist forces in the region.

Castro likely did not want Angola to fall under South African control due to the implications of apartheid and the potential spread of racist policies in the region. Supporting Angola's independence was crucial in preventing the establishment of a hostile, anti-communist regime in Southern Africa.

Foreign powers, particularly the USA, USSR, and Cuba, became involved in the Angolan Civil War as part of the broader Cold War strategy, aiming to exert influence and counteract each other's ideologies. The USA feared the spread of communism following the Vietnam experience, prompting clandestine support for anti-communist factions, while Cuba intervened to support the MPLA as part of its broader commitment to global socialist movements. This complex interaction was primarily driven by ideological battles and national interests.