Cold War Overview and Key Events Pt 2

Overview of the Cold War

• The Cold War is a prolonged period marked by tension between the United States and the Soviet Union, characterized by indirect conflict.
• It consists of a series of proxy wars, which are fought in third-party countries rather than directly between the two superpowers.

Key Proxy Wars

Korean Conflict (1950-1953)

• Divided Korea at the 38^{th} Parallel:
  • North Korea: Communist
  • South Korea: Democratic Capitalist
• Initiation:
  • North Korea invades South Korea, prompting a response.
  • UN forces led by the United States support the South.
• Escalation:
  • South Korean forces cross the 38^{th} parallel, increasing tensions.
• Conclusion:
  • A ceasefire was signed in 1953, effectively leaving the war unresolved.
  • No formal treaty ended the conflict; the division persists to this day.

Vietnam War (1960s-1975)

• Another significant proxy conflict reflecting Cold War tensions regarding communism and democracy.

Joseph Stalin's Influence

• Stalin was known for his repressive regime and hardline communist practices.
• Upon his death, the Soviet Union began a process referred to as destalinization.

Destalinization

• Definition: A slight movement towards democratization in the Soviet Union following Stalin's death.
• Characteristics:
  • Very minimal changes; not a significant shift towards full democracy.
  • Acknowledged struggles within the Soviet society due to repression of free thought.
• Consequences:
  • Emergence of limited free thinking and exchange of ideas among the Soviet populace.
  • Potential unrest in satellite states (Eastern Europe) as people challenged the totalitarian rule imposed on them.

Reactions and Outcomes

• People's Response:
  • Satellite nations, previously subjected to Soviet control, began to express dissatisfaction with communism.
  • Growing movements for liberation and criticism of oppressive rulers.
  • Recognition that many of these nations did not choose communism voluntarily.

Conclusion

• The Cold War era is marked not just by the actions of the superpowers but also by the voices and choices of the nations caught in between.
• Discussions concerning freedom of speech and governance will be explored in further detail in subsequent lectures, especially focusing on the changes after destalinization.