DCUSH Exam Review 3/17

  1. What are the four freedoms?

Speech, worship, want, fear

  1. How did the foreign policy of FDR differ from that of Hoover?

FDR was more active and involved in global issues, supporting allies and taking action against aggression. Hoover was more isolated and focused on avoiding international conflicts.

  1. Why did Americans hope to avoid WWII?

Because they wanted to prevent the loss of lives, avoid the economic costs, and stay out of foreign conflicts after the effects of ww1.

  1. What was the Cash and Carry plan?

Allowed countries at war to purchase american goods and arms as long as they paid cash and transported the goods themselves, keeping the U.S. neutral while supporting allies. 

  1. Why did FDR run again in 1940?

He believed the country needed his leadership and experience to guide them through the ongoing global crisis and threat of WW2. 

  1. What was the impact of Lend Lease?

It provided crucial support to allied nations during WW2, strengthening their ability to fight against the axis powers(germany,italy, japan) and ultimately contributing to the allied victory. 

  1. How did the Invasion of Italy prepare for the invasion of France?

It weakened the axis defenses, diverted German troops, and provided valuable experience and momentum for the allies, which helped prepare for the larger invasion of france. 

  1. Why didn't the USSR invade other countries after WWII?

Because it focused on consolidating control over eastern europe through political influence and establishing communist governments, rather than direct military invasions. 

  1. Why were American diplomats upset about a Communist Government in 1945?

Because they feared the spread of communism would threaten democracy and capitalism, and they were concerned about soviet influence expanding globally. 

  1. What is the Iron Curtain?

A term used to describe the barrier that separated the soviet controlled countries of eastern europe from the western democracies during the cold war. It symbolized the division between communists and capitalists. 

  1. What is the Truman Doctrine?

Policy announced by Harry Truman in 1947, stating that the U.S. would provide political, military, and economic assistance to countries threatened by communism. 

  1. What obstacles did Truman face when he became President?

Ending ww2, managing post war construction, dealing with cold war tensions with the soviets, and handling domestic issues. 

  1. What was the Marshall Plan?

U.S. Program initiated in 1948 to aid western europe’s economic recovery after ww2. It provided over $12 billion in financial assistance to rebuild infrastructure and prevent communism.

  1. Why did the US help rebuild Europe after WWII?

To prevent the spread of communism, stabilize the global economy, and create strong trading partners. The Marshall plan aimed to ensure political stability. 

  1. Why did Stalin blockade Berlin?

To force the western allies(U.S., britain, and france) out of the city and to stop the creation of a separate west german state. He aimed to gain control over all of Berlin and pressure the allies into abandoning their plans for a unified West germany. 

  1. Why did the US allow West Germany to join NATO?

To strengthen the defense against the soviet union and enhance european security. Integrating West Germany in NATO helped to create a strong, united front in the Cold War.

  1. What was the American GDP like between 1946 and 1960?

It grew significantly due to post war consumer demand, industrial expansion, government spending, and the baby boom. A period of strong economic growth. 

  1. How did Los Angeles epitomize the love of American's had for the automobile?

They showed americans love for cars with its huge freeways, car culture, and the way the city spread out. 

  1. How did consumer culture differ from the 1950s to other decades?

It was all about post war spending on homes, cars, and appliances, fueled by optimism and ads. Other decades shifted focus with social movements and economic changes. 

  1. How did television impact American culture?

It brung entertainment, news, and advertising directly into peoples homes. It helped shape public opinion and kept people informed and connected. 

  1. How did TV play a role in the Army-McCarthy hearings?

It broadcasted live to the american public in 1954. This allowed millions of viewers to see McCarthy’s aggressive tactics and allowed for public opinion. This led to a decline in his popularity and to the end of his anti-communist crusade.

  1. Why did auto makers rise to the top of corporate America in the 1950s?

Because of the booming post-war economy, increased consumer demand for cars, and the growth of suburban living. The construction of interstate highway systems also boosted car sales. 

  1. Why were American suburbs segregated in the 1950s?

Because of discriminatory practices like redlining, restrictive covenants, and federal housing policies. These practices prevented black families and other minorities from buying homes in certain areas.