National & International Political Divisions Francisci WG.10b National vs. International Political Divisions National Division: An alliance that occurs across a single country or nation. International Division: An alliance that occurs across countries or continents (maybe even world-wide). Political alliances may cause conflict between nations. Examples of Economic & Political Alliances: North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO): A military alliance of 28 countries from North America and Europe that support democracy and security for its members. April, 1949 Created as a result of the Cold War between the U.S. and Russia Member countries agree to mutual defense in response to an attack by an external party Examples of Economic & Political Alliances: United Nations: A political organization of over 190 countries created after WWII in 1945 to work towards international peace. Created to avoid another war Provided humanitarian aid in cases of famine, natural disaster or armed conflict. Examples of Economic & Political Alliances: Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC): An economic alliance created in 1960 dedicated to the policy of controlling the production and sale of petroleum among member nations. Formed in Baghdad, Iraq Was formed because multinational companies were controlling the global distribution of oil Examples of Economic & Political Alliances: North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA): An economic alliance created in 1989 that reduces trade barriers between Mexico, Canada and United States. Eliminated tariffs on exports to Mexico and tariffs on exports from Mexico to the U.S. Examples of Economic & Political Alliances: Organization of American States (OAS): A political organization made up of 35 countries from the western hemisphere that works for peace and democracy Cooperation among member states; strengthen peace and democracy of the continent; fight the drug trade Examples of Economic & Political Alliances: African Union (AU): A political organization created in 2002 of 54 African countries to promote human rights, democracy and economic development in Africa. Launched in South Africa Wants to advance Africa Achieve unity & solidarity Examples of Economic & Political Alliances: League of Arab States: A political organization of over 22 Arab nations created after WWII in Contains countries from North Africa and the Middle East Strengthen ties among members; coordinate policies and promote common interests. Examples of Economic & Political Alliances: Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN): An economic alliance created in 1967 to reduce trade restrictions between member countries in Southeast Asia. Protection of regional peace and stability Economic growth Social progress Why do political divisions exist at the national and international levels exist? Differences in culture, language and religion. Imperial conquest and control (e.g. European control of Africa during the late 1800s). Why do political divisions exist at the national and international levels exist? Retention of historical boundaries. Economic similarities and differences such as type of economic system (capitalism vs. command) and major exports and imports