Cold War and Nuclear Age-American Studies-Content Statement 22

Which factor fueled debate over national security in the United States during the 1940s and 1950s?

The fear of communist infiltration

Which action established the Soviet Union as a second superpower?

It successfully tested an atomic bomb

What effect did the action taken by the Soviet Union in the previous question have on international relations?

It began an arms race between the United States and the Soviet Union

What impact did the Soviet Union's detonation of an atomic bomb have in 1949?

It led to the emergence of a second superpower

How did the use of atomic weapons change the nature of war and global power dynamics?

Balance of power shifted toward nuclear nations

What was the purpose of the containment policy during the Cold War?

To limit the spread of communism in Europe and Asia

Which issue was the leading cause of political debate over national security in the United States during the 1940s and 1950s?

Fear about communist infiltration in the government

What was the main purpose of the Cuban Missile Crisis blockade in 1962?

To prevent Soviet ships from reaching Cuba

In 1962, the world was brought to the brink of nuclear war during the Cuban Missile Crisis, because:

U.S. national security was threatened by enemy weapons

What was a significant outcome of the Vietnam War for the United States?

Erosion of public support for foreign military interventions

Which event most directly contributed to the collapse of the Soviet Union and the end of the Cold War?

The collapse of communist governments in Eastern Europe

What was a major consequence of the arms race during the Cold War?

Increased tension between superpowers

How did the Space Race impact Cold War relations?

It increased superpower rivalry

What role did propaganda play during the Cold War?

It shaped public opinion about the enemy

What was the significance of the Berlin Wall in Cold War politics?

It symbolized Cold War division

How did McCarthyism affect American society in the 1950s?

It caused widespread fear and suspicion

What was the primary goal of the Marshall Plan?

To rebuild post-war Europe

How did the development of nuclear weapons affect military strategy?

It led to deterrence policies

What was the impact of the Korean War on Cold War tensions?

It increased Cold War rivalries

How did the Cold War affect domestic policies in the United States?

It increased focus on civil defense