1/23/24 - Post WWII Economy (Notes) Economic recession after WWI → soldiers came back and had no jobs Republicans took control of Congress after the w

What economic issues did the U.S. face after World War I?

Economic recession as soldiers returned to a jobless market.

What major legislation provided education and housing benefits to returning veterans after WWII?

The GI Bill.

What was one significant social change in America following WWII?

The baby boom, leading to increased consumer spending on baby products.

What did the Employment Act aim to achieve?

Maximum employment, ensuring every needed job is filled.

What demographic shift occurred known as the Sun Belt migration?

People moving from the Northern states to the warmer, tax-friendly Southern states.

What term describes the movement of predominantly white families to the suburbs?

White Flight.

How many babies were born in America during the Baby Boom from 1945 to 1960?

50 million babies.

What presidential act aimed to limit union power and collective bargaining?

Taft-Hartley Act of 1947.

Which president was known for his anti-segregation stance and efforts toward civil rights?

Harry Truman.

What important organization was created at the 1945 UN Conference?

The United Nations (UN).

What was the purpose of the Marshall Plan?

To restore the European economy after WWII through foreign aid.

What was the significance of the Berlin Airlift?

It was a response to the Soviet blockade of West Berlin, resupplying the city.

What was the main goal of George Kennan's containment policy?

To contain the spread of communism.

What event marked the beginning of the Cold War according to some historians?

The Yalta and Potsdam conferences.

What did Truman's Doctrine outline as a policy for U.S. engagement?

Military and economic aid to countries resisting communism.

What was the U.S. policy towards Taiwan post-Chinese Revolution?

The U.S. recognized the Republic of China (ROC) in Taiwan as the legitimate government of China.

Who led communist forces to victory in the Chinese Revolution of 1949?

Mao Zedong.

Which military strategy did Truman refuse to follow during the Korean War involving China?

To attack China directly or expand the war into Chinese territory.

What was the immediate result of the North Korean invasion of South Korea?

A request for UN intervention to support South Korea.

What was significant about Truman’s decision regarding General MacArthur?

Truman dismissed MacArthur for insubordination, prioritizing broader U.S. interests over military strategy.

During the Cold War, what was the primary purpose of NATO?

To create a military alliance among Western nations against the threat of communism.

What did the term Iron Curtain symbolize during the Cold War?

The division between Western democratic nations and Eastern communist nations.

What did Truman mean by the phrase, 'The Buck Stops Here'?

He accepted ultimate responsibility for decisions made during his presidency.

How did WWII impact the American economy in terms of industry changes?

The shift from agrarian to industrialized economy, with advancements in technology.

What was one result of the urban decay that began in the 1970s?

Economic decline and disinvestment in urban areas, particularly affecting African Americans and new immigrants.

What was the long-standing fear in the U.S. regarding the spread of communism?

The domino effect, where one nation's shift to communism could lead neighboring countries to follow.

What was Truman’s assessment of American foreign policy after WWII?

A commitment to stop the spread of communism and promote democracy globally.