The Rise of the Cold War and Its Impact on Education

Flashcards focused on key terms and concepts related to the rise of the Cold War and its influence on American education.

Cold War

A period of geopolitical tension between the Soviet Union and the United States, along with their respective allies, from the end of World War II to the early 1990s.

The Military-Industrial-Academic Complex

A coalition of the military, industrial, and educational sectors that emerged following World War II, influencing American policy and education.

G.I. Bill

Legislation passed in 1944 that provided various benefits to returning World War II veterans, significantly impacting higher education enrollment.

Sputnik

The first artificial Earth satellite, launched by the Soviet Union in 1957, which intensified the space race and led to reforms in American education.

National Defense Education Act (1958)

Legislation that provided significant federal funding for education, particularly in science and mathematics, in response to the Soviet launch of Sputnik.

California Master Plan for Higher Education (1960)

A framework that aimed to create an integrated system of public postsecondary education in California, emphasizing accessibility and diverse educational pathways.

Enrollment Growth

The increase in the number of students enrolled in educational institutions, particularly in the context of higher education in the United States from 1940 to 1990.

Federal R&D Investment

Federal funding for research and development in higher education, particularly in science and technology, which grew significantly after the launch of Sputnik.

Overcrowded Schools

A major issue in American education during the Cold War, where classrooms were often filled beyond optimal capacity, leading to inadequate learning environments.

Curriculum Standards

The set of guidelines and expectations for what students should learn in schools, which faced criticism for being shockingly low during this period.