Cold War Legacy: Study Guide & Review Questions

These flashcards cover essential concepts related to the Cold War legacy, significant events, policies, societal impacts, and political changes in the United States.

What is the Cold War?

The period from 1945 to 1989 during which the U.S. and its democratic allies directly rivaled the Soviet Union and its communist satellites.

Define containment in the context of the Cold War.

Containment is the policy aimed at stopping the spread of communism by offering political, military, and economic assistance to vulnerable nations.

What were one of the significant turning points of the Cold War?

The Cuban Missile Crisis in 1962 marked a critical point in U.S.-Soviet relations and led to the establishment of a direct communication line between the two superpowers.

How did the Berlin Blockade/Airlift affect U.S. foreign policy?

It solidified the division of Germany and demonstrated U.S. commitment to European allies, leading to the formation of NATO.

What was the Marshall Plan and its significance?

The Marshall Plan allocated billions to rebuild European economies post-WWII, preventing the spread of communism and revitalizing markets.

Identify the impact of suburbanization post-WWII on American society.

Suburbanization shifted demographic patterns, influenced consumerism, and contributed to the rise of the middle class, while exacerbating racial segregation.

How did defense spending during the Cold War influence technological innovation?

It significantly advanced technologies such as aerospace, computing, and surveillance measures, with innovations like ICBMs and the early internet.

What role did Dixiecrats play in the political realignment of the South?

Dixiecrats were Southern Democrats opposed to civil rights policies who helped shift the South toward Republican support.

Describe one effect of the Civil Rights Movement on U.S. foreign policy.

The achievements of the Civil Rights Movement helped improve the U.S. global image by highlighting advancements in racial equality.

What is McCarthyism and its impact on civil rights?

McCarthyism was a political campaign against alleged communists, creating tensions between national security and civil liberties, including blacklisting of individuals.