The Cold War Begins: Key Terms and Concepts

A collection of vocabulary terms and definitions relevant to the early years of the Cold War, supporting students in understanding key concepts and historical context.

Containment

A U.S. foreign policy aimed at preventing the expansion of communism.

Limited War

A military strategy where the goal is to achieve specific objectives without deploying overwhelming forces.

George Kennan

An American diplomat who proposed the idea of containment as a strategy to counter Soviet aggression.

Long Telegram

A 5,540-word message sent by George Kennan that outlined his views on Soviet behavior and the need for containment.

Truman Doctrine

A policy established by President Truman to provide aid to countries resisting communism, specifically aiding Greece and Turkey.

Marshall Plan

An American initiative passed in 1948 for foreign aid to Western Europe, aimed at economic recovery to prevent the spread of communism.

NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization)

A military alliance formed in 1949 between the United States and several Western European nations to provide mutual defense against aggression.

SEATO (Southeast Asia Treaty Organization)

A regional defense organization established in 1954 to prevent communism in Southeast Asia.

Insecurity

The state of being uncertain or anxious, particularly relating to political or military threats.

Initially

At first; in the beginning.