Lecture Notes: The Cold War - NSC 68

Introduction to NSC 68

• Host: David
• NSC 68 was a pivotal document guiding Cold War strategy.
• Questions raised: Was the Cold War a result of happenstance, deliberate policy, or both?
• NSC 68 explained the rationale behind US actions in the Cold War.

Context and Background

• The US National Security Council (NSC) was formed post-WW2 as a coordination body for US foreign policy.
• Kennan's earlier writings (Long Telegram, Article X) influenced early Cold War thinking.
  • Kennan's view: Soviet behavior driven by insecurity and traditional Russian goals.
  • Proposed containment while maintaining dialogue.

Paul Nitze and NSC 68

• Paul Nitze replaced Kennan, saw USSR threat as ideological and existential.
• NSC 68 presented to President Truman on April 7, 1950.
• Document framed US-Soviet relations as ideological.

NSC 68 Key Arguments

• US vs. USSR: Ideological conflict.
  • US is inherently good, USSR seeks world domination.
• Four proposed US courses of action:
  1. Continuation of current policies.
  2. Isolation.
  3. Preemptive war.
  4. Build political, economic, military strength.

Recommended Strategy

• NSC 68 advocated for a sustained build-up of US and allied capabilities.
• Suggested a permanent war footing for US military.
• Establish international security alliances.
• Aim: Deter USSR without resorting to war.

Impact and Adoption

• Mixed reactions: Truman interested but sought cost details.
• Korean War validated the document’s urgency.
• Truman approved NSC 68 in 1951, leading to increased defense spending.

Analysis of Nitze vs. Kennan

• Post-Soviet archival evidence showed neither Nitze nor Kennan entirely correct.
• Soviet perspective (Novikov Telegram) mirrored US fears, but with reversed views.

Legacy of NSC 68

• Began cycle of Cold War mistrust and escalation.
• Led to arms race and global conflicts.
• Spurred technological advances (e.g., space race).

Conclusion

• NSC 68 had a lasting impact on Cold War dynamics.
• Historical legacy includes conflict and development.
• Encouragement to subscribe and support the channel.

History is complex and nuanced, going beyond black and white narratives.