The Long Telegram Flashcards
What does Kennan’s Long telegram claim the objective of the soviet union is, including evidence and how does he believe this will effect relations with the West?
It is the objective of the soviet union to spread communism throughout the world and so peace with the capitalist, free West is not possible. This is evident by the actions of Stalin in Eastern Europe where he has gone to great lengths to establish pro-soviet governments in the countries of Eastern Europe.
How does he describe the soviet union in relation to the united states?
They do not believe in the American way of life and will stop at nothing to destroy it. They do not believe in liberty and freedom, but in power and control. The soviet union is truly the greatest threat ever faced by the united states.
In Keenan’s opinion what should the policy of the US government be to deal with the soviet union?
The Soviet Union can be defeated and without going to war. They need not be challenged on the battlefield. They way to defeat the soviet union is to contain soviet aggression. They must be stopped from spreading it’s influence across the world. The main element of any United States policy towards the soviet union must be that of a long term patient but firm containment.
Explain in your own words your understanding of the term containment? What is the domino theory?
Containment is stopping the spread of communism any further, keeping it trapped where it is.
The domino theory - the USA feared if one country fell to communism that it would have a knock on effect on those countries surrounding it.
