What Was The Cold War Flashcards
(9 cards)
What is the Cold War?
A state of political hostility between countries that expresses itself through political pressure, propaganda, and threats, particularly between the Soviet Union and the USA in the second half of the 20th Century.
The Cold War lasted from 1945 to 1991.
What time period does the Cold War cover?
1945-1991
It begins at the end of World War Two and ends with the collapse of the Soviet Union.
How is the Cold War often oversimplified?
As ‘Capitalism vs. Communism’ or ‘freedom vs. totalitarianism’.
These phrases capture the ideological divide but do not encompass the full complexity of the conflict.
Why is it called the ‘Cold War’?
Because there was no direct conflict between the two nations.
The term reflects the lack of open warfare despite high tensions.
What characterized the competition between the USSR and the USA during the Cold War?
Intense ideological and geopolitical competition.
Both sides intervened in regional conflicts to promote their ideology or reduce the other’s influence.
What role did aggressive language play in the Cold War?
Aggressive language, actions, and threats were common.
There were several instances when the two nations nearly went to war.
What significant development occurred during the Cold War regarding military capability?
Development of massive nuclear arsenals.
This led to a constant fear of nuclear annihilation.
What is one of the essential questions regarding the Cold War?
Why and how did conflict develop between the USSR and USA after WW2?
Other essential questions include the competition for global influence and the impact on society and economy.
Did America win the Cold War, or did the Soviets lose it?
This is a vital question that remains debated.
The outcome of the Cold War is often interpreted differently depending on the perspective.
