The United Nations was formed in the aftermath of World War II, in response to the failure of the League of Nations to prevent the war. Its creation was driven by the desire to promote international cooperation, maintain peace and security, and address global issues such as poverty, hunger, and human rights abuses. The UN Charter was signed on June 26, 1945, by representatives of 50 countries, and the organization officially came into existence on October 24, 1945.