Unit 8: The Cold War (1945-1980)

Learning Objective

• Explain the continuities and changes in Cold War policies from 1945 to 1980.

Introduction

• Cold War: A conflict between the US and Soviet Union characterized by ideological battles, not direct warfare.
• Focus on the struggle between democratic capitalism and authoritarian communism.

Background

• Post-WWII Context: US emerged as a powerful nation; Soviet Union opposed US ascendancy.
• Ideological Differences: US aimed for a democratic capitalist world; USSR for a communist world.

Causes of the Cold War

• Historical Tensions: Stemming from the Russian Revolution in 1917.
• Soviet Expansion: After WWII, Soviets retained control in Eastern Europe, breaching agreements for free elections.
• Division of Germany: Post-war division of Germany and Berlin among Allies; Soviet control led to a communist East Germany.
• Iron Curtain: Churchill's term for the division of Europe.

US Response

• Containment Policy: Prevent spread of communism.
  • Truman Doctrine: Supported countries threatened by communism (e.g., $400 million to Turkey and Greece).
  • Marshall Plan: $13 billion to aid European economic recovery to deter communism.
• Berlin Blockade & Airlift: Soviet blockade countered by US airlifting supplies to West Berlin.
• NATO: Military alliance against Soviet aggression.
• Warsaw Pact: Soviet counter-alliance.

Nuclear Proliferation

• Arms Race: US and USSR developed and stockpiled nuclear weapons (atomic, hydrogen bombs).
• Mutual Assured Destruction (MAD): Both sides understood nuclear war would be catastrophic.

Proxy Wars

• Definition: Wars backed by US or USSR, not direct conflict.
• Korean War:
  • Division of Korea along the 38th parallel.
  • North Korea (Soviet-backed) invaded South Korea.
  • US-led UN troops pushed back North Korea; China intervened.
  • War ended with division at the 38th parallel.
  • Significance: Proxy war and a result of containment policy.

Conclusion

• The Cold War was marked by ideological struggle, proxy wars, and nuclear arms race.
• US policies focused on containing communism and rebuilding Europe to prevent Soviet influence.

Additional Resources

• AP US History Ultimate Review Packet: Includes video content, note guides, practice questions, and exams.

Note: For detailed examination of the Vietnam War, refer to subsequent lectures.