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 refers to the practice where a country asserts political and economic control over another region. In the context of Angola in 1974, colonialism pertained to Portugal's dominance over Angola, resulting in exploitation of its resources and suppression of Angolan self-governance. The sentiment against colonialism grew, leading to movements striving for independence.

Two aims of the Alvor Agreement included: 1) to establish a transitional government that would pave the way for future elections, and 2) to promote a peaceful political future for Angola by ensuring the participation of all three liberation movements.

The three liberation movements failed to adhere to the Alvor Agreement primarily due to ideological differences. Each movement aimed to promote its own political agenda, causing friction. Additionally, there was a lack of trust among leaders and varied perceptions of external influences, which made cooperation difficult. Many leaders believed they could achieve their goals independently.

The historical photograph likely captures a significant moment reflecting the tensions and aspirations surrounding Angola's independence struggle. It may have been taken to document the unity among liberation movements or to highlight the geopolitical interests at play during the period.

The signing of the Alvor Agreement was precipitated by the shift in Portugal’s political landscape, particularly after the Carnation Revolution. It created conditions for negotiation among the Angolan liberation movements. The agreement sought to resolve the conflicting interests of MPLA, FNLA, and UNITA, facilitating Angola's transition to independence along with the promise of peace.

Source 2B illustrates that the three liberation movements were present during negotiations in Portugal, as depicted in the photographs. This confirms the collaborative effort. Moreover, Source 2B emphasizes their commitment to drafting the Alvor Agreement, showcasing a unified front during this critical period.

According to Source 2C, Cuba supported the MPLA by sending military advisors and combat troops to train MPLA forces. This included the provision of arms and logistical aid, helping bolster the MPLA's position in the conflict.

Firstly, the source indicates that the Soviet Union provided sophisticated weaponry to MPLA forces. Secondly, it mentions the delivery of Antonov-22 transport planes containing military supplies, which were essential for sustaining operations against rival factions.

Cuba played a pivotal role by directly intervening with combat troops and military training, supporting MPLA's military engagements. Meanwhile, the Soviet Union functioned as a crucial ally, supplying military equipment and financial assistance, thus enhancing the MPLA's capabilities against opposition forces, thereby shaping the trajectory of the conflict.

This source is particularly useful as it provides direct insights into the military affiliations of Cuba and the Soviet Union with MPLA. It highlights their strategic support roles and illustrates the broader geopolitical context influencing the Angolan Civil War, thereby serving as a foundational reference for understanding foreign involvement.