London Treaty Organization Flag (circa. 1953)
The London Treaty Organization (LTO) is a multinational defensive alliance composed of eleven member states, consisting of nine European nations and two North American countries. Established on February 27th, 1947, the LTO emerged as a collective security pact between the United Kingdom and France in response to the growing influence of Communism in post-World War II Europe. The LTO convenes its meetings in New York City.
History[]
The origins of the LTO can be traced back to the aftermath of World War II, characterized by widespread devastation and economic hardships. The war left numerous capitalist liberal democracies in a state of crisis, creating an environment in which communist parties under the influence of the Soviet Union gained electoral victories and assumed power in countries such as Italy, the Netherlands, and Iran, all during 1946. Recognizing the perceived threat posed by these Communist nations, the United Kingdom and France signed the London Treaty in 1947, formally establishing the LTO.
The initial mission of the LTO was to provide support to the Kingdom of Greece during the Greek Civil War, where it fought against the Communist Party of Greece. However, due to financial constraints, the LTO had to withdraw its support, resulting in the Communists' eventual victory by 1950. In the same year in 1947, Belgium, Iceland, and Luxembourg joined the LTO, expanding its membership. Canada and Norway later joined in 1948, while the United States, a significant player, became a member on February 17th, 1950, during the Wagner Administration.
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The headquarters of the London Treaty Organization in New York City.
With the inclusion of the United States, the leadership of the LTO gradually shifted from the United Kingdom to the United States. This change occurred because of the United States' larger economy and military capabilities, making it the primary supplier of weaponry and economic aid to the LTO member states. Consequently, the LTO meetings relocated from London to New York City, reflecting the increased involvement of the United States in the organization's affairs.
On February 8th, 1951; the Kingdom of Greece in exile on Crete would join the London Treaty Organization. This would result in the Sea of Crete Crisis with the Hellenic People's Republic. It would be the first instance of fighting between an LTO member and a Cominform member, sparking tension in Europe.
During the MacArthur Administration the LTO would fight in it's first proxy war since the Greek Civil War, in the Breakup of Yugoslavia from 1955 to 1957.
LTO members and aligned in 1950s-1960s.
Members of the LTO[]
- United Kingdom: Joined 1947
- France: Joined 1947
- Belgium: Joined 1947
- Iceland: Joined 1947
- Luxembourg: Joined 1947
- Canada: Joined 1948
- Norway: Joined 1948
- United States: Joined 1950
- Crete: Joined 1951
- Westphalia: Joined 1954
- Portugal: Joined 1970
Aligned Nations[]
- Spain
- Syria
- Cuba
- Brazil
- Australia
- Japan
- New Zealand