The Atlantic Charter is a document signed by Franklin D. Roosevelt and Winston Churchill during World War II. The word "Atlantic" is spelled /ətˈlæntɪk/ in IPA phonetic transcription. The first syllable is pronounced with a schwa sound, while the "l" in "Atlantic" is pronounced with a clear "l" sound. The second syllable has the short "a" sound followed by the "n" sound. The final syllable has the "ih" sound followed by the "k" sound. Together, the word "Atlantic" is pronounced as "uh-tlan-tik".
The Atlantic Charter refers to a joint declaration issued by the United States and the United Kingdom during World War II on August 14, 1941. It served as a pivotal document that outlined the goals and principles agreed upon by both nations for a post-war world order, even before the entry of the United States into the war.
The Atlantic Charter can be defined as a statement of allied principles and objectives that emphasized the commitment towards freedom, self-determination, and collaboration among nations. It emphasized the rejection of territorial expansion, respect for sovereignty, disarmament of aggressors, and the promotion of global economic cooperation. The Charter advocated for the establishment of a just and enduring peace, as well as the principle of collective security to prevent future conflicts.
The Atlantic Charter became an important foundation for the post-war international order, as it influenced various subsequent agreements including the formation of the United Nations. While it primarily addressed the war aims of the United States and the United Kingdom, its principles of democracy, free trade, and collective security resonated broadly and played a significant role in shaping the post-war world order.
Overall, the Atlantic Charter can be seen as a watershed moment, marking the beginning of a coordinated effort between the United States and the United Kingdom in shaping a better world, setting the stage for a new era of international cooperation and diplomacy.