The Origins of the Cold War: A World Divided

Flashcards covering specific tier 2 and tier 3 words from the reading

What were the two main ideologies promoted by the United States and the Soviet Union during the Cold War?

The United States promoted democracy and capitalism, while the Soviet Union promoted communism.

What was the purpose of the Soviet Union establishing a 'buffer zone' in Eastern Europe after World War II?

To create friendly communist nations to protect themselves from future invasions.

Why were the United States and the Soviet Union referred to as 'allies of convenience' during World War II?

They cooperated against Nazi Germany, despite their opposing ideologies.

What did Winston Churchill mean by the phrase 'Iron Curtain'?

It referred to the division between Western democratic nations and Eastern communist nations in Europe.

How did the development of the atomic bomb contribute to the Cold War?

The use of the atomic bomb by the U.S. against Japan threatened the Soviet Union and led to an arms race.

What was a significant consequence of the post-war conferences at Yalta and Potsdam?

The Allies struggled to agree on the future of Germany and Eastern Europe, increasing tensions between the U.S. and the Soviet Union.

What was the ideological conflict that fueled the Cold War?

An intense struggle between democratic capitalism and communist control.

What action did Stalin take in Eastern Europe that escalated tensions with the West?

He began installing puppet communist governments in neighboring countries.

How did the atomic bomb race influence U.S.-Soviet relations after World War II?

It fueled suspicion and competition, as both nations sought to increase their nuclear capabilities.

In what way did the collapse of diplomatic trust affect the Cold War?

It ensured that the former allies, the U.S. and the Soviet Union, remained bitter rivals.