Cold War Test Review

These flashcards cover key concepts, events, and figures associated with the Cold War and WWII as outlined in the provided notes.

What were TWO reasons why the United States and the Soviet Union became rivals after World War II?

Different ideologies: capitalism vs communism.

What was the goal of the U.S. containment policy?

To stop the spread of communism.

Where was the U.S. containment policy first tested and why was this location important?

It was tested in Korea, which was significant due to its strategic position in Asia.

What did the Truman Doctrine aim to do?

Provide aid to countries resisting communism.

What was the Marshall Plan?

An economic aid program to help European nations recover after WWII and prevent communism.

Why did the Soviet Union block access to West Berlin in 1948?

To force western allies out.

How did the U.S. respond to the Soviet blockade of West Berlin?

Through the Berlin Airlift.

What was the significance of NATO during the Cold War?

It established collective security among member nations.

What was the Soviets' reaction to NATO's formation?

They created the Warsaw Pact.

What impact did McCarthyism have on American society in the 1950s?

It created intense fear and suspicion, characterized by political persecution.

Why did fear of communism lead Americans to suspect one another?

Communism was perceived as an internal threat.

What was the significance of the launch of Sputnik in 1957?

It showcased Soviet missile superiority, prompting increased U.S. defense spending.

What was the National Defense Education Act?

An act aimed at boosting U.S. education in science, math, and foreign languages.

How did Cold War tensions affect military spending in the U.S.?

Increased tensions led to higher military spending, contributing to the arms race.

What caused the Korean War?

North Korea's invasion of South Korea.

What was President Kennedy's response to the Cuban Missile Crisis?

He imposed a naval blockade on Cuba.

How did Fidel Castro's rise to power affect U.S.-Cuba relations?

Castro nationalized U.S. businesses and allied with the USSR.

What caused the Berlin Airlift?

The Soviet blockade of Berlin.

What was the result of the Berlin Airlift?

Successfully supplied West Berlin; Soviets eventually backed down.

What was McCarthyism?

An anti-communist campaign led by Senator McCarthy that created fear and persecution.

How was the arms race different from the space race?

The arms race focused on military weapons, while the space race was about advancements in exploring space.

What was the House Un-American Activities Committee?

A committee investigating suspected communists in the U.S.

What event led to an increase in defense spending during the Cold War?

The Korean War.

What agency was created due to increased defense spending?

The Department of Defense.

What was the Red Scare?

The widespread fear of communism and spies in the U.S.

What was the purpose of the Truman Doctrine?

To provide assistance to democratic nations threatened by communism.

What major events led to the Bay of Pigs Invasion?

Fidel Castro's rise, nationalization of U.S. businesses, and his alliance with the USSR.

What occurred after the Bay of Pigs Invasion?

It resulted in embarrassment for U.S. foreign policy and strengthened Castro.

When did the U.S. join WWII and why?

After the Pearl Harbor attack.

What was the Lend-Lease Act?

A policy that allowed the U.S. to supply allies with war materials before formally entering WWII.

What was Executive Order 9066?

It authorized the internment of Japanese Americans during WWII.

What was the significance of the Battle of Midway?

It was a decisive naval victory and a turning point in the Pacific Theater.

What is island hopping?

A military strategy in WWII that involved capturing key islands while bypassing others.

What was the War Powers Act?

It limits the President's power to send troops without congressional approval.

Who was Vernon Baker and why was he important?

An African American Medal of Honor recipient recognized for his bravery in WWII.