APUSH | Terms Review | Period 8 1945-1980

This set of flashcards covers key terms and events from the Cold War era, focusing on major policies, conferences, legislation, and social movements.

Origins of the Cold War

Strained relations with the USSR influenced by Roosevelt’s death and Truman’s presidency, contributing to increased tensions.

Yalta Conference

February 1945 meeting between FDR, Stalin, and Churchill; established Soviet intent to enter Pacific War.

Potsdam Conference

July-August 1945 meeting to decide postwar arrangements; established zones of occupation in Germany.

Containment

U.S. foreign policy aimed at restraining Soviet expansion; influenced by George Kennan's writings.

Truman Doctrine

1947 policy of providing support to countries resisting communism; established U.S. as a global policeman.

Marshall Plan

Economic aid program for European recovery post-WWII, aiming to prevent the spread of communism.

Berlin Blockade

Soviet blockade of Berlin in 1948, leading to the U.S.-led Berlin Airlift to supply West Berlin.

NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization)

Military alliance formed in 1949 to provide collective security against Soviet aggression.

Korean War

Conflict initiated in 1950 when North Korea invaded South Korea, involving U.S. intervention.

McCarthyism

Period of heightened anti-Communist suspicion in the U.S. led by Senator McCarthy's accusations.

G.I. Bill of Rights

Legislation providing benefits to WWII veterans, including education and housing assistance.

Civil Rights Act of 1964

Landmark legislation prohibiting discrimination in public accommodations and employment.

Voting Rights Act of 1965

Legislation aimed at eliminating barriers to voting for African Americans.

Cuban Missile Crisis

1962 confrontation between the U.S. and the USSR over Soviet missiles in Cuba, leading to a naval blockade.

Detente

Period of eased tensions and improved relations between the U.S. and the Soviet Union during the 1970s.

Watergate Scandal

Political scandal following the break-in at the Democratic National Committee headquarters and subsequent cover-up.

Great Society

Lyndon B. Johnson's set of domestic programs aimed at eliminating poverty and racial injustice.

Stagflation

Economic condition of stagnant growth and high inflation experienced during the 1970s.

OPEC (Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries)

An intergovernmental organization of oil-producing countries that coordinated oil prices and production.