The Korean War and its Key Events

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts related to the Korean War, major U.S. policies, and significant events that influenced American foreign policy during the Eisenhower and Kennedy administrations.

Korean War

A conflict that lasted from 1950 to 1953 between North Korea (with support from China and the USSR) and South Korea (with support from the United Nations, primarily the U.S.).

Pusan Perimeter

A defensive line established during the Korean War by UN forces in the southeast corner of South Korea.

Inchon Landing

A surprise amphibious operation led by General MacArthur on September 15, 1950, which was pivotal in turning the tide of the Korean War.

MAS*H

An acronym for Mobile Army Surgical Hospital; became a popular television show reflecting on the Korean War.

National Defense Education Act

Legislation signed by Eisenhower in 1958 aiming to improve education in science and mathematics in response to the Soviet launch of Sputnik.

Cuban Missile Crisis

A 1962 confrontation between the United States and the Soviet Union over ballistic missiles deployed in Cuba, which brought the two countries close to nuclear conflict.

Eisenhower Doctrine

A U.S. policy stating that the United States would use military force to defend Middle Eastern countries against aggression from communist countries.

Peace Corps

A service organization created by Kennedy in 1961 aimed at providing social and economic development assistance in developing countries to combat communism.

USAID

United States Agency for International Development; established to coordinate and provide U.S. foreign assistance and help in the development of other nations.

De-Stalinization

The policy of political reform in the Soviet Union initiated by Nikita Khrushchev, which included criticism of Stalin's rule and the release of millions of political prisoners.