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How to Create an Effective Thesis Statement in 5 Easy Steps

Creating a thesis statement can be a daunting task. It’s one of the most important sentences in your paper, and it needs to be done right. But don’t worry — with these five easy steps, you’ll be able to create an effective thesis statement in no time.

Step 1: Brainstorm Ideas

The first step is to brainstorm ideas for your paper. Think about what you want to say and write down any ideas that come to mind. This will help you narrow down your focus and make it easier to create your thesis statement.

Step 2: Research Your Topic

Once you have some ideas, it’s time to do some research on your topic. Look for sources that support your ideas and provide evidence for the points you want to make. This will help you refine your argument and make it more convincing.

Step 3: Formulate Your Argument

Now that you have done some research, it’s time to formulate your argument. Take the points you want to make and put them into one or two sentences that clearly state what your paper is about. This will be the basis of your thesis statement.

Step 4: Refine Your Thesis Statement

Once you have formulated your argument, it’s time to refine your thesis statement. Make sure that it is clear, concise, and specific. It should also be arguable so that readers can disagree with it if they choose.

Step 5: Test Your Thesis Statement

The last step is to test your thesis statement. Does it accurately reflect the points you want to make? Is it clear and concise? Does it make an arguable point? If not, go back and refine it until it meets all of these criteria.

Creating an effective thesis statement doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With these five easy steps, you can create a strong thesis statement in no time at all.

This text was generated using a large language model, and select text has been reviewed and moderated for purposes such as readability.

Thesis Of The Cold War By John Lewis Gaddis

Show More The Cold War by John Lewis Gaddis John Gaddis puts a very interesting thesis into play on the cold war perspective. Gaddis’s thesis has the equity needed to truly understand the cold war. His thesis fearlessly states that the Soviets and the Americans are both the cause of the Cold War. The Soviets and Americans both wanted a way of life they thought was better and their was a geopolitical struggle between the two countries.Gaddis shows that the Cold War was a war of idealistic opinions and the struggle for power. His thesis can be proven through focusing on some of the leaders he spoke about throughout his book. Gladdis first supported his thesis when he spoke of Roosevelt, Truman, and Stalin. Stalin wanted communism and the domination of Europe. Stalin had strongly suggested that wartime expenditures in blood and treasure should determine who got what, this would give the Soviet Union a boost to control Europe. Gladdis used an interesting map to show that the Soviet Union already owned a large portion of land, but they wanted more.Roosevelt, on the other hand, wanted capitalism. Sadly, Roosevelt died on April 12, 1945; Truman then became president. Roosevelt’s demand for capitalism …show more content… These were some of the most important leaders during the cold war. They all had two main different beliefs: communism and capitalism. Also, they all contributed to the geopolitical struggle of wanting more power. The nuclear issues started and ended because of these leaders too. As Gaddis thesis suggest, these two countries are very similar, but very different because of their ideological beliefs. The Cold War could have ended more devastatingly. Luckily, thanks to these leaders and their actions, it ended wisely. Anxiety and worries disappeared, the end of the cold world left people with one important things:

US Truman, Richard Nixon, And Ronald Reagan

U.S. Leaders in the Cold War As World War II ended in 1945, the United States and the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics began a decades long struggle for global supremacy known as the Cold War, which lasted until 1991. During this period of time the following Presidents governed the United States: Truman, Eisenhower, Kennedy, Johnson, Nixon, Ford, Carter, Reagan, and Bush. For the purpose of this essay I’m going to focus on three of the more influential Presidents: Harry Truman, Richard Nixon, and Ronald Reagan. All three of these Presidents played crucial, but very different roles during the Cold War.…

Clea Gaddis's The Cold War: A New History

The Cold War: A New History is about the Cold War, which occurred after the Second World War. The book explains when it “started”, when it ended, and the events that occurred between 1947 – 1991. This war had no clear indication of when it began, for there no treaties being broken, no declaration of battle or of a war. But this time period was of a tension of political and military, for the leaders of Western bloc and Eastern bloc were on the edge of the Second World War. The Cold War was a war of principles, morals, and of economics.…

America's Negative Effects On The United States During The Cold War

This essay will be focus on the US during the Cold War and how they overthrew and destabilized governments around the world. There were many negative effects for those countries, which caused anti US sentiments that still exist today, and it went against their ideology. The US these days is loved by many inside their country, but…

The Second Red Scare And The Cold War

From the years of 1946 to 1991, the United States, the Soviet Union, France, Britain and much of Eastern Europe were involved in what is known as the Cold war. Foreign policies across the globe were concerned with a few major concepts, of which two were the most prevalent: containment and the Domino Theory. The countries not involved in NATO and the Warsaw Pact were highly competed for, in terms of annexation and expansion, by those two groups, in the attempts to make either capitalism or communism the dominant ideology. This conflict lasted for 45 years after the end of World War two and it can be understood most of the events that transpired during that time adhered to certain concepts: the bipolar world, mutually assured destruction (M.A.D),…

Cold War Dbq Research Paper

During the Cold War, America was in a persistent stalemate with the U.S.S.R. Each country would indirectly attack the other’s interests, without actually starting a war. American policy during the Cold War helped cement America as a world power, a force for democracy, and an economic giant. America’s ascent to power can be seen in many ways during the Cold War.…

Cold War Dbq Essay

The end of World War II introduced nuclear weapons to the world, little did they know it would be the cause of their next conflict, the Cold War. The Cold War was a non-violent struggle for power between the Soviet Union and the United States of America. The leader of the Soviet Union, Mikhail Gorbachev, and the current president at that time, Ronald Reagan, were trying to resolve their conflict peacefully. The leader that was primarily responsible for ending the Cold War was Mikhail Gorbachev, since he called for the nuclear weapons treaty and for slowing down the arms race.…

Why Was The Cold War Inevitable

However, just because Stalin and Truman had vastly different political ideologies doesn’t mean the Cold War was inevitable. A large part of why the Cold war escalated to the height it did was because of a general lack of cooperation and understanding and an unwillingness to discuss territorial dispute from both the Soviets and Americans. Ironically, despite having deep feelings of hatred towards each other’s country Stalin and Truman met in person only one time (Patterson 108). Truman believed he could deal with Stalin, but the actions he took proved otherwise (109). The fact that Stalin and Truman only met once shows that the two countries were equally guilty of not wanting to deal with the problem at hand.…

Differences Between The United States And Soviet Union

However, for the Soviet Union, they imposed their ideals on other countries. They constantly challenged each other through negative propaganda about how each country was ran politically, through military advancements, and challenging themselves with the idea of humans in space. In reality, both countries, were similar and different from each other in many ways. Different in the form of how each country was ran or controlled, and very similar in the want to have the upper hand in the advancement of technology and military might. Because both countries were adamant about being the country with all military power and technology made for rough 45 years that would popularly be called the Cold War.…

The Cold War A New History Summary

The Cold War lasted from 1945 to 1985. Few history experts took the time to deal with or to speak about the events as they happened. Leaving most indivduals wondering about the development of the war. During this frightening period, different presidents served for the American people and each president felt the war carried a lot of dangers. In the same way that, young Americans, Soviets and other people who lawfully lived in a the country, state, etc. of the world required the services of an educated person to provide understanding of deep things.…

Why Was The Soviet Union To Blame For The Cold War

The Cold War was a period of time when tension between the Soviet Union and the United States uprised due to economic and ideological differences. The Cold War began in 1945 and ended in 1991. Even though the term “war” was used, there was never any physical fighting involved. Both, the Soviet Union and the United States ideological differences influenced the way both countries would react to the Cold War. At the time, the Soviet Union was communist and the United States was democratic and capitalist.…

Who Started Cold War

Although it is still debated whether the USSR or the US initiated the Cold War, after considering the actions and strengths of both countries, it is clear that the United States instigated it. The Cold War affected American society by making the people fear war. The Cold War prevented further military conflicts and and made Americans more aware of the precious value of freedom and…

Why Did The Soviet Union Lose The Cold War

We could find a number of approaches trying to explain the origins of the Cold War. The initial one put emphasis on external threats to national security, blaming Soviet Union for its aggressive action. It is apparently not rigorous as it ignored the internal factors of states, which was later questioned by ‘revisionist’ historians. Revisionists pay more attention to the expansion requirements of international capitalism, and they deem US was the one to be blame for creating Soviet insecurity.…

Marxism And The Cold War

The Cold War was riddled with international politics and political conflict. Beginning in 1945, the Cold War lasted for approximately 45 years and ended around 1990. During this conflict there were two main contenders; the United States and the Soviet Union. Even though there was no direct campaign between the two contenders, “billions of dollars and millions of lives were lost…” ("The Cold War Erupts", (n.d.)).…

The Cold War : A Very Short Introduction

Book Review Author: Robert J. McMahon Title: The Cold War: A Very Short Introduction Publisher: Oxford University Press Place and Date of Publication: New York, 2003 Topic and Scope: In The Cold War: A Very Short Introduction, Robert J. McMahon discusses a general account of the Cold War, spanning the period from 1945 to the finale of the Soviet-American confrontation in 1990. McMahon discusses key events, trends, and themes that that highlighted key players, such as Stalin, de Gaulle, and Reagan. He also devotes much attention to the Cold War 's domestic as well as international effects.…

Cold War - Free Essay Examples And Topic Ideas

The Cold War was a defining period in world history, spanning from the end of WWII until 1991. It was a political, economic, and ideological struggle between the USSR and the United States, which dominated the global debate for decades. Writing a research paper about Cold War is a challenging task, but with the help of free essay examples on Cold War, students can gain insight into this complex period.

Our experts have prepared a collection of essay samples covering various aspects of this period, including its causes, effects, and debates. Students can use these examples to evaluate different thesis statements, outline their arguments, and craft an effective introduction and conclusion

The Cold War was fueled by the clash of two powerful ideologies: communism and capitalism. The Soviet Union was a communist country, while the USA was a capitalist democracy. The states involved in this struggle were split into two camps based on their ideology and political beliefs. The impact of the Cold War was felt worldwide, as many countries were forced to choose sides and take part in ideological conflict.

One of the most significant events of the Cold War was the construction of the Berlin Wall, which separated East and West Berlin for decades. By examining our argumentative essay topics, students can gain a deeper understanding of this critical period and make a summary of the human rights violations related to it.

The Cold War: Severe Tension between the United States and the Soviet Union

The feuding began after World War II, mostly regarding political and economic power. After the destruction that World War II caused, the United States and the Soviet Union were left standing. Gaining control of countries was sought after, even if the countries weren't benefiting them in any way. During this time, it was all about power. From the years of 1957 to 1975, the Cold War was in full effect and the United States and the Soviet Union were in […]

How did the Cold War Affect the World Today

This project is going to be about the Cold War affect at that time and today. The author-topic happened in the United States and the Soviet Union and during the mid of the 40's to late 80's. The author argument about a political and economic struggle between the two superpowers, we can describe it as militarism. This topic is essential to the United States Because the United States emerged as the sole superpower in the world and, capitalism beat communism. […]

The Longest War Fought in America’s History

The Vietnam War was iniated in November 1st 1955 and was finished on April 30 1975 because communism was starting to grow in Vietnam and the U.S wanted to keep it contained. At the time President Nixon was really worried that if Vietnam was to become communist other nations would soon follow and switch to communism. Ultimately at the end of the war there were a million plus casualties on both sides. The war officially ended in 1975 with the […]

Relationship between United States and Soviet Union during Cold War

United States and Soviet Union's tensions were increasing and on edge leading up to, during, and after the Cold War. The conflict between the Soviet Union and the United States has two very different sides, creating different ways to place responsibility. The Soviet and US conflict began before the Cold War and continued on throughout. At the end of the WWII, Germany was defeated and split up among the victors. Because of this division, in 1948, conflict arose in the […]

Cold War Effects on America

The Cold War certainly changed and shaped the American economy, society, and politics from 1945 to 1992. The contrasting beliefs between Communism (the Soviet Union) and Democracy (the United States) caused the rift between the worlds top two most prominent superpowers -- Communism had established itself to be an immediate challenge to the importance of the United States of America. To stop these two world powers from becoming an even larger global conflict, a few military interventions were established in […]

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Keith Haring is an American Pop Artist

Keith Haring is an American pop artist whose work became well known around the 1980s. He turned the average, bleak surroundings of his life into a platform that he could express his artwork and the many controversial ideas within through. Most of his work focuses on deep personal and human values, e.g. love, sex, war, death, and societal expectations, but he's most well known for dismantling the stigma of aids, advocating for the LGBT+ & African-American communities, and detesting drugs […]

The Significance of the Bay of Pigs Invasion and the Cuban Missile Crisis on the Cold War

On January 1, 1959 a Cuban nationalist by the name of Fidel Castro, drove his guerilla army into Havana, the capital of Cuba. Him and his guerrilla dethroned General Fulgencio Batista who was the Cuban president at the time. He ruled for two two years while the State Department and the CIA aimed to push Castro out of power. Eventually, in April 1961, the CIA organized a definitive strike made up of Cubans that had been forced to flee from […]

Cold War in China, Cold War in Cuba, and Space Race

Today, I'm going to write a research paper about, Origins of the cold war, Cold War in China, Cold War in Cuba, and Space Race. These four topics are all related to the horrible tragedies that happened during the Cold War. A lot of families suffered during this war. A lot of the soldiers have died during this war. I will start off with my first topic, which is Origins of the Cold War. I hope you enjoy reading my […]

The Vietnam War in the World History

Silence is all the soldiers could hear but they knew that they weren't alone. Soldiers from a foreign country attacked them from the shadows. Thousands of young American men were killed in the forests deep in Vietnam. The national interest of America that Americans developed after the Yalta Conference encouraged us to join the Korean War which led to the Vietnam War,the most regretted war in US History, guided America when it comes to foreign policies. At the end of […]

Socialism and Communism in Cold War

The Cold War was commonly a contention fight for world prevalence. The contention between Soviet Union astounding. The battle between Soviet Spousal relationship and the unified states was inescapable on the grounds that America US would not like to enable the possibility of socialism to spread.it was the bedcover .it was the adversary between the two party that quickened the cool coldness war and since neither the Soviet Union nor the assembled states was eager to surrender and surrender, abdication […]

The Berlin Crisis and the Cold War

This investigation will explore the question: To what extent was the United States responsible for the Berlin Crisis? The scope of this investigation will focus on the causes of the Berlin crisis and the effect of the US' presence before and during the conflict. The first source which will be evaluated is a US government document titled Soviet and Allied Statements on the Berlin Blockade . The purpose of this document is to share both the US and Soviet Government's […]

John F Kennedy’s Life

John F. Kennedy grew up in Brookline, Massachusetts with nine siblings. He was the second child born to Rose Fitzgerald and Joseph Kennedy Sr. He attended a catholic all boys school but didn't really care about his academics. John F. Kennedy was also a very sick child having suffered severe colds, flu, scarlet fever, and many more severe undiagnosed diseases. Due to the many illnesses he had it caused him to have to miss months of school. Kennedy graduated and […]

The Exhibit Narrative: Art and Culture during the Cold War

The Global Cold War between the former Soviet Union and the United States shaped the world on various, different levels, the clash of contradictory ideologies led the two superpowers to the edge of a nuclear disaster and divided the earth for the second half of the 20th century. Further, the worldview of the United States was based on capitalism and Coca Cola Hollywood, the Marshall Plan, Elvis Presley or Apollo eleven characterized the American way of life. In contrast, the […]

Ending the Cold War

The Cold War, America's risk of starting a third world war with the U.S.S.R but also one of America's most profitable and popular wars. The cold war begun after the WWII, when the soviets took control of half of Germany and wanted to expand their control over Asia and surrounding countries. Russia wanted to expand communism through out the pacific and the U.S wanted to liberate it and make it a more democratic place. Before this became an arms race, […]

Effects of the Cold War

The Cold War was a time of hostility that went on between the Soviet Union and the US from 1945 to 1990. This rivalry between the United States and the Soviet Union lasted decades and created a result in anti communist accusations and international problems that led up to the two superpowers to the brink of nuclear disaster. During World War II, the Soviet Union and United States fought together as allies against the axis powers. However, the two nations […]

Women of Cold War in America

Homeward Bound by Elaine Tyler May is an American Ideology of the 1940 and 50's that appeared into two traditional narratives in white American suburban families and fear of anti-cold war nuclear disaster. This in turn formed a new American ideology, called women's independence in white America. May argues in her book about US foreign relations, communist, lifestyle and culture of a domestic American women. May present the idea that in the era of 1940 and 50s the united states […]

President John F. Kennedy’s Assassination

Friday morning on November 22, 1963, President John Fitzgerald Kennedy was parading through the Dallas, Texas streets with his wife, and the Vice President and his wife in the car behind, in opened convertible limousins on their way to the Trade Mark, so he could give a speech. However, the President did not make it to his destination. Around 12:30 p.m. shots were fired from the Texas School Book Depository hitting the thirty-fifth President in the neck and head. President […]

Ideological Conflict in the Cold War

The cold war was a time of tension between the Soviet Union and the United States and their respective ideologies. It followed World War II and lasted from about 1945-1991. It was not declared in the same sense as most wars; rather, it progressed over time. Therefore, there are different opinions about the exact beginning of the war. The places of hostilities most often were competitions, such as: who gets to space first, sports events and espionage. This was proof […]

Richard Nixon Foreign Policy and Cold War

The Cold War began to come to an end once President Richard Nixon stepped into office. He wanted to take a different approach to the international relations by using diplomacy instead of military action. In 1972, Leonid Brezhnev, the Soviet premier, and Nixon signed the Strategic Arms Limitation Treaty. This treaty made both sides agree to halt all nuclear weapons manufacturing. This would then lead to a big step to ending the threat of nuclear war. Even though Nixon had […]

Conformity Within 20th and 21st Centuries Utopias/Dystopias Idealized by Cold War Era

The Cold War changed the way that many people in the United States and the world in general viewed the vast differences between freedom and control. One of the key factors in the Soviet Union that so frightened outsiders, was the level of conformity that they commanded over their people. In the People’s Republic of China, everything from communication to travel was controlled and people did their jobs in both communities or were left behind in history. Every person was […]

Cold War Communism in East Germany and Poland

The Cold War was an ideological War that happened between the Soviet Union and the United States, and it started after the Second World War. After the Second World War, Germany was defeated, and France and Britain were left exhausted and drained. The Soviet Union and the United States were also drained, but they remained with considerable power, and they rose to the status of superpower. The Soviet Union and the United States became rivals via mutual distrust and conflicting […]

Russian Global Expansion

A general consensus has formed among the leaders of Western nations and among western-oriented international organizations like NATO and the European Union (EU). “Not only have spheres of influence returned in the twenty-first century, but they have come back because of Russia’s desire to disrupt the post-Cold War peace.”. Russia’s current policies have two distinct goals. First Russian seeks to reclaim its control over the post-Soviet space. Secondly its larger goal which has become increasingly evident in the period since […]

The Cold War and U.S Diplomacy

My take on President Kennedy's doctrine ""Respond flexibly to communist expansion, especially to guerrilla warfare from 1961 to 1963"". The doctrine by President John F. Kennedy. During the Second World War, the Soviet Union and the United States worked together in fighting Nazi of Germany. The coalition between the two parties was dissolved after the end of the war in Europe. During the Potsdam conference, the tension broke up on July when the two parties decided to share Germany. The […]

The Cuban Missile Crisis and Cold War

COLD WAR 1947 - 1991 The Cold War referred to the competition, the tensions and a series of confrontations between the United States and Soviet Union, backed by their respective allies. The Cuban Missile Crisis was the considered to be the high point of what came to be known as the Cold War because of the following reasons. 1) Worries of the USSR In April 1961, the leaders of the USSR were worried that the United States would invade the […]

Cold War: Sanctions and Effects Diplomatic Relations

Today, modern rhetoric prevents improvement between the United States and Russia, especially during the Trump administration. In terms of sanctions, the Cold War has never ended. Sanctions range from financial, economic, diplomatic, personal, and corporate, and seem to follow one after the other like a game of retaliation. The consequences of the evolving sanctions and the predicted likelihood of more sanctions between the United States and Russia are returning us to Cold War levels of tension; different but potentially just […]

Geopolitics and the Cold War

Soon following World War II was the Cold War. The Cold War was a hapless and extreme time of discomfort caused by a great geopolitical tension between two areas(Prager U). The western bloc and the eastern bloc served great roles in this conflict. The western bloc contained countries allied with NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization).Such as France, Norway, and Denmark. As for the term Eastern bloc referred to countries associated and run by the soviet union. These were countries like […]

American History Since 1865

According to the article by Joseph McCarthy on Communism “It has not been the less fortunate or members of minority groups who have been selling this nation out, but rather those who have had all the benefits that the wealthiest nation on earth has had to offer — the finest homes, the finest college education, and the finest jobs in government we can give.” In essence, McCarthy claimed that he had a list of communists in the American gov't, but […]

The Emergence of a New Cold War: Implications and Challenges

On October 4th, 2018 a speech was given in the Hudson Institute, the think tank and research center dedicated to nonpartisan analysis of United States and international economic, security, and political issues (Hudson Institute), in Washington D.C., Maryland. Vice President Mike Pence, addressed a speech to China's leaders/government. Pence formally addressed the matter that there will be a new, tougher approach toward Beijing. Pence's speech was very straightforward, surprising Beijing of the 'alleged offenses' in only one public indictment, speaking […]

Gender Roles during the Great Depression and the Cold War

A role or behavior learned by a person as appropriate to their gender which is determined by the prevailing cultural norms is called a gender role. Both men and women have been told how to behave, dress, and even present themselves to the public. An example of gender roles in society is women are supposed to be feminine, graceful, polite, nurturing, emotional, take care of kids, cook, clean; while men are supposed to be muscular, aggressive, tall, take care of […]

How US Intervention in Afghanistan during the Cold War Led to the Global War on Terror

During the Cold War in the late 1970s the Soviet Union invaded Afghanistan. At the time, tensions between the Soviet Union and the US were high, and so the US was trying to combat the Soviet influence without direct military action that may result in a war between the two nuclear armed countries. The US answer to this problem was to train, arm, and support local Afghans who were against the Soviets. This strategy of waging a proxy war was […]

Essays on Cold War

Hook examples for cold war essays, the tension-building anecdote hook.

Start your essay with a gripping anecdote from the Cold War era, such as a close encounter between opposing forces, a spy's daring mission, or a pivotal diplomatic negotiation.

The Iron Curtain Metaphor Hook

Draw parallels between the Iron Curtain that divided Europe during the Cold War and modern-day geopolitical divisions. Explore how historical lessons can inform contemporary politics.

The Cuban Missile Crisis Revelation Hook

Begin with a revelation about the Cuban Missile Crisis, a pivotal event during the Cold War. Discuss the world's reaction to this crisis and its implications for global peace.

The Space Race Innovation Hook

Highlight the innovative aspects of the Space Race between the United States and the Soviet Union. Discuss the technological advancements and the impact on science and society.

The Proxy Wars Connection Hook

Start by exploring the concept of proxy wars during the Cold War. Discuss how these conflicts shaped the global political landscape and their relevance in today's world.

The Nuclear Arms Race Factoid Hook

Begin with startling facts about the nuclear arms race between superpowers. Discuss the fear of nuclear annihilation and its lasting effects on international relations.

The Espionage and Spy Games Hook

Introduce your essay by delving into the world of espionage during the Cold War. Discuss famous spies, intelligence agencies, and the intrigue of espionage operations.

The Cultural Cold War Reference Hook

Start with references to the cultural aspects of the Cold War, including the influence of literature, music, and art. Discuss how cultural diplomacy played a role in the conflict.

The End of the Cold War Paradox Hook

Begin with the paradox of the peaceful end of the Cold War. Explore the factors that contributed to its conclusion and the subsequent geopolitical shifts.

The Lessons from History Hook

Start by reflecting on the lessons that can be learned from the Cold War. Discuss how understanding this historical period can inform contemporary foreign policy and global relations.

Who Was Responsible for The Cold War

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Analysis of How Did The Cold War Shaped American Politics, Society, and Economy

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How The Atomic Bomb Invention Contributed to The WW2 and The Cold War

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American Policy of Containment During The Cold War and Its Consequences

Fears of america and the emergence of the cold war, america's leadership position at an international stage, the impact of world war ii and the cold war on the development of science in the 20th century, ronald reagan and mikhail gorbachev: discussion on resolving the cold war, analysis of the influence behind the actions of the united states army, cuban missile crisis as a world changing event, the korean war – a conflict between the soviet union and the united states, apocalypse now - cold war perspectives, the political situation in brazil during the cold war, the development of the peace corps in america, the geography of the cold war: why the us embarked on a containment policy, religion as one of the causes of the cold war, red scare: incitement to hatred of anarchy and communism, beware the red scare: another red threat to america, american containment strategy and the end of the cold war, history of american life in the early postwar era, advantages, disadvantages, and application of aip in modern submarines, president eisenhower - a cold war philosophical and rhetorical view on the farewell address, the aggressive actions of the united states against the soviet union in jeffrey burds' the early cold war in soviet west ukraine, 1944-1948.

12 March 1947 – 26 December 1991 (44 years and 9 months)

North Atlantic Treaty Organization, Soviet Union, United States, Warsaw Treaty Organization.

Winston Churchill, Joseph Stalin, Harry S. Truman, Dwight D. Eisenhower, Nikita Khrushchev, John F. Kennedy, Ronald Reagan

Cuban missile crisis, Nuclear Test-Ban Treaty, Strategic Arms Limitation Talks, Berlin crisis of 1961, collapse of the Soviet Union

The Cold War was a period of political tension and military rivalry between the United States and the Soviet Union, lasting roughly from the late 1940s to the early 1990s. It emerged in the aftermath of World War II when ideological differences and geopolitical interests between the two superpowers intensified. The historical context of the Cold War can be traced back to the division of Europe after World War II, with the United States championing democratic principles and capitalism, while the Soviet Union sought to spread communism and establish spheres of influence. This ideological divide led to a series of confrontations and proxy wars fought between the two powers and their respective allies. The development of nuclear weapons added a dangerous dimension to the conflict, as both sides engaged in an arms race to gain a strategic advantage. The Cuban Missile Crisis of 1962, a standoff between the United States and the Soviet Union over the placement of nuclear missiles in Cuba, brought the world to the brink of nuclear war.

The division of the world into two ideological blocs: The capitalist bloc led by the United States and the communist bloc led by the Soviet Union. The arms race and nuclear proliferation, leading to the stockpiling of nuclear weapons by both superpowers and the development of advanced military technology. The establishment of military alliances such as NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization) and the Warsaw Pact, which solidified the division between the Western and Eastern blocs. Proxy wars and conflicts fought between the United States and the Soviet Union or their respective allies, such as the Korean War, the Vietnam War, and various conflicts in Africa, Asia, and Latin America. The spread of communism to several countries, including Eastern European nations that became part of the Soviet-dominated Eastern Bloc. The Cuban Missile Crisis, a tense standoff between the United States and the Soviet Union in 1962, which brought the world to the brink of nuclear war. The collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991, marking the end of the Cold War and the transition to a unipolar world with the United States as the dominant superpower.

One of the major effects of the Cold War was the division of the world into two competing blocs, the United States-led capitalist bloc and the Soviet Union-led communist bloc. This ideological divide created a bipolar world order and fueled numerous proxy wars and conflicts around the world, such as the Korean War and the Vietnam War. The arms race between the United States and the Soviet Union was another significant consequence of the Cold War. Both superpowers invested heavily in the development and stockpiling of nuclear weapons, leading to an unprecedented level of global military buildup. The fear of nuclear annihilation and the doctrine of mutually assured destruction shaped military strategies and had a lasting impact on international security policies. The Cold War also had economic ramifications. The United States and the Soviet Union competed for influence and sought to spread their respective economic systems, capitalism and communism, across the globe. This led to the creation of economic alliances and aid programs, such as the Marshall Plan, as well as the establishment of the Soviet-dominated Eastern Bloc and the NATO alliance. Furthermore, the Cold War influenced the course of decolonization and independence movements in many countries. The superpowers often supported or opposed regimes based on their alignment with capitalist or communist ideologies, leading to political instability and conflicts in various regions. In addition, the Cold War had cultural and social effects. It fostered a climate of suspicion and fear, which manifested in widespread political repression, surveillance, and the suppression of civil liberties. The ideological struggle between capitalism and communism influenced cultural productions, including literature, art, and film.

Studying and writing essays on the topic of the Cold War is essential for students due to its multidimensional significance. Firstly, exploring the Cold War provides students with a deeper understanding of the complexities of international relations, diplomacy, and ideological conflicts. It offers insights into the strategies, policies, and motivations of the superpowers involved, such as the United States and the Soviet Union. Secondly, writing essays on the Cold War promotes critical thinking and analytical skills. Students are encouraged to examine primary and secondary sources, analyze different perspectives, and evaluate the long-term consequences of historical events. This process enhances their ability to form well-reasoned arguments and develop a nuanced understanding of complex historical phenomena. Additionally, the Cold War has left a lasting impact on society, culture, and global dynamics. By exploring this topic, students can gain insights into the origins of the arms race, the nuclear age, the space race, and the proliferation of proxy wars. They can also examine the impact of the Cold War on civil rights, technological advancements, popular culture, and the formation of alliances.

1. The term "Cold War" was coined by the American financier and presidential adviser Bernard Baruch in a speech in 1947. It referred to the absence of direct military confrontation between the superpowers, but the ongoing ideological and political struggle between them. 2. The Cold War was characterized by a state of non-military confrontation between the United States and the Soviet Union. 3. The space race played a significant role during the Cold War, prompting the establishment of NASA and fueling competition between the superpowers. 4. The proxy wars fought between the United States and the Soviet Union during the Cold War resulted in the loss of numerous lives, with casualties reaching millions. 5. Notable "hot" conflicts of the Cold War period included the Korean War, the unsuccessful Bay of Pigs invasion in Cuba, and the Vietnam War. These conflicts involved direct military engagement or support from the superpowers, leading to significant human suffering and loss.

1. Gaddis, J. L. (2005). The Cold War: A new history. Penguin Books. 2. Westad, O. A. (2012). The Cold War: A world history. Basic Books. 3. Leffler, M. P. (2008). For the soul of mankind: The United States, the Soviet Union, and the Cold War. Hill and Wang. 4. Beschloss, M. R. (1997). Mayday: Eisenhower, Khrushchev, and the U-2 affair. HarperCollins. 5. Zubok, V. M., & Pleshakov, C. (2007). Inside the Kremlin's cold war: From Stalin to Khrushchev. Harvard University Press. 6. Hogan, M. J. (Ed.). (2015). The Cold War in retrospect: The formative years. Oxford University Press. 7. LaFeber, W. (2002). America, Russia, and the Cold War, 1945-2000. McGraw-Hill. 8. Lynch, T. (2010). The Cold War: A very short introduction. Oxford University Press. 9. Matlock, J. F. (1995). Reagan and Gorbachev: How the Cold War ended. Random House. 10. McMahon, R. J. (2003). The Cold War: A very short introduction. Oxford University Press.

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Essays on Cold War

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Cold War and its Aftermath

As we are all connected to history in one-way shape or form it is important to realize how history is moving us in certain directions. The era of the cold war and just after that played a major role in directing events in the USA. This included technology advancements, human rights, and then the USA policies concerning the world. We find that the world has been deeply influenced in this period and continues to project into our future. During the […]

Cold War and the Power Aspect in 21-st Century

Power is a vital part within the system. Its elucidation and primary usage of the concept of power varies on whichever you would apply it with. Power is often associated with politics. However, within politics, the context of power is best depicted into substantially three concepts. The first one is in terms of capability. Power in this concept depicts possession, possession of things that they perceive to be of great advantage to their nation. Power in this concept brings some […]

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The Cold War Battle

The battle of the Cold War was the first time in U.S. history in which military technology had developed to a point that mutual annihilation was ensured. The presence of two global superpowers, each diametrically opposed to the other on the basis of political belief meant that there had to be a new way of dealing with foreign affairs. Pure isolationism would not work because of Soviet leaders and their desire to actively export their brand of communism to the […]

The Cold War: a Competition between Two Countries

The United States sought to defeat the communist ideology of the Soviet Union on multiple fronts during the Cold War. Through indirect military interventions, cultural triumphs, and competitions occurring at the national level the two nations would oppose one another. These sorts of competitions proved incredibly effective as a project to help the bankrupting of the Soviet economy and ultimately played a pivotal role in the eventual collapse of the Soviet Union. The Space Race between the two nations was […]

A Cold War Approach to Future US-Russia Arms Control

High strung tensions of a possible nuclear war were a major fear portrayed throughout the Cold War. Cooperation between Americans and Soviets seemed inconceivable and many believed the constant conflict would never end. When relations looked like a turn for the worst, a monumental change occurred in 1985. Mikhail Gorbachev became the new leader of the Soviet Union and the unimageable became possible. Gorbachev would take control of a dying political and economic state of the Soviet Union. In response, […]

The New Cold War with China

For China, 1840 was the start of a century of “national humiliation.” The British started a war with China over trade, a few rebellions sprung up during the 1850s, and the Qing dynasty started weakening. All these rebellions – which mostly were caused by anger at foreign interference – were usually shut down by Western powers, making China loathe the West even more as they took advantage of their position with unfair treaties and extraterritoriality. Eventually, the KMT, eventually a […]

Jazz in the Cold War

In 1945, the United States emerged from World War 2 as a global power, contemporaneously with forty countries liberating themselves of colonialism. It was the intention of the United States for these newly developing nations to side with the West and Capitalist ideals, not the Soviet Union and its Communism.“In 1956 the State Department was persuaded that jazz was an important tool in achieving this diplomatic objective,” (Monson 111). As U.S. cultural diplomacy was establishing its primacy, the Soviet Union […]

Harmless and Changing Cold War

Many people believe the Cold War was an actual war however, this war was an event that included a sequence of divergent competitions. The Cold War was caused by several events, which took place at the Yalta conference. This conference lead to the Cold War by allowing the Soviet Union to have control over the Eastern Europe. The Europeans felt that the Soviets were going to impose in the communist systems on all the countries they possibly could. The U.S. […]

Changes that the Cold War have Brought

Beginning after World War II in 1947 and ending with the fall of the Soviet Union in 1991, The Cold War was a war over true freedom and power. While the Soviet Union spread their communist ideas around, the United Sates fought on the side of capitalism. Give Me Liberty states Among other things, the Cold War was an ideological struggle, a battle, in a popular phrase of the 1950s, for the hearts and minds of people throughout the world. […]

A Film about Cold War for Kids

How did the Duck and Cover PSA impact America? American kids during the Cold War had experiences that kids before and after would not and did not have. They watched the adults around them react to the perceived threat to America and its way of life by the Soviets and the Cold War. Kids during this time would learn to fear this threat and its impact on their future, the threat of nuclear weapons had increased after Soviet Russia acquired […]

Case Study: the Cold War

Introduction The Cold War is a perfect example of the quest for dominance between the United States of America and the Soviet Union present day Russia. As alluded to by George Orwell, a British Author, living under the prospect of a nuclear war was dubbed ‘a peace that is no peace.’ The term, Cold War, would come to characterize the political, social, and monetary history of the second phase of the twentieth century. More than simply a military standoff, the […]

How did the Cold War Affect America?

The two sources that I will be analyzing is “From Civil War to ‘Civil Society’: Has the End of the Cold War Brought Peace to Central America” and “Latin America and the End of the Cold War” The source that will be evaluated first will be Jenny Pearce’s journal, “From Civil War to ‘Civil Society’: Has the End of the Cold War Brought Peace to Central America?”, which was written in 1998. Jenny Pearce has been an Honorary Visiting Professor […]

Contributing Factors of the Cold War

The Cold war was a war that is forever imprinted into our minds as a time of many struggles.It has many contributing factors that made it as big as it was. Major contributing factors of the war was the Space Race, Vietnam war, and the Korean War. Many plans and Ideas came to play with this war. Plans that were specifically major contributors were the Marshall Plan and the Truman Doctrine these had impactful plans. There were also groups that […]

A Phenomenon of the Cold War

The Cold War Events with the tribulations of Nazi Germany coming to an end, Adolf Hitler’s suicide, and the definitive surrender of the Germans, it seemed that anticipation of an optimistic future was within reach, however, a new threat loomed not so shortly after with the Soviet Union establishing communist governments and the U.S.S.R. became the new face of adversary. The Cold War was the dynamic struggle between communism and capitalism after World War II causing merciless animosity between the […]

Sports Diplomacy during the Cold War

The Cold War was a period of extreme tension that divided the globe between democracy and communism. Diplomacy was essential in preventing conflict between global superpowers. Diplomacy is quite an interesting subject however, as it shows up in many different forms. One of the most important forms of diplomacy in this time period was that of sport. Many nations prided themselves on the dominance of their sport programs, and in many cases used sport to provide a common ground between […]

Dystopian Fiction during the Cold War

Introduction Richard M. Nixon once said, The Cold War isn’t thawing; it is burning with a deadly heat. Communism isn’t sleeping; it is, as always, plotting, scheming, working, fighting. The Cold War was a period of high tensions that lasted from 1947 to 1991. The two sides of the conflict were the Soviet Union and its allies (supporters of communism) and the United States and its allies (supporters of democracy). Each side of the Cold War aimed at spreading their […]

Sports Media in the Cold War Era

The Significance of Western Sports Media in the Cold War Era During the Cold War, the battle of ideologies spanned much more than the political spectrum. The rivalries between Western and Eastern Bloc countries in the field of international sport were a tool used by the both sides alike to establish dominance over each other, as well as to display the success of their ways of living on a world stage. During these times, western sports media was used almost […]

Lessons Taken from the Cold War

The Cold War differed from the normal combat that had existed in almost every prior war in that the two countries involved never engaged in direct physical fighting with each other. The term represented a standoff with words, however, it was a war much larger than words. It was a war of ideologies, a war of preparation for wars, and a war of covert activities. The Cold War led to many changes. People were fearing for their lives every day, […]

The Impact of the Cold War on American Society

American Society in the Cold War teaches us that conformity is society’s response to the changes in social beliefs or behaviors by conforming to the group pressures to gain approval from the majority. The real definition of the word conformity is, “A type of social influence involving a change in belief or behavior in order to fit in with a group” (McLeod, 2007). Psychologist Kelman distinguished three different types of conformity. The three were compliance (group acceptance), internalization (genuine acceptance […]

How Successful was the Policy of Containment during the Cold War

In May of 1945, Nazi Germany surrendered, thus starting the beginning of the end of World War II. The already uneasy wartime treaty between the allied United States and Great Britain and the Soviet Union began to unravel. By 1948, the Soviets had placed left-wing governments into the countries that had been liberated by the Red Army. The Americans and British both feared the permanent Soviet control of eastern Europe and the threat of Soviet-influenced communist parties coming over and […]

Vietnam War’s Effect on the Cold War

The Vietnam War had a big effect on the Cold War, being a very deadly war with, at times, no end in sight. After China became a communistic country, communism began to spread throughout Indochina. In 1954 Vietnam had gained its independence from France. But Vietnam was split into two parts at the time, Communistic North Vietnam under the rule of Ho Chi Minh and South Vietnam under the rule of dictator Ngo Dinh Diem. Both leaders wanted to unify […]

The Dollar Gap and the Cold War

While America did not like Communism from an ideological standpoint and they threat of Soviet atomic nukes played a role in leading to the Cold War. The dollar gap played a much bigger role in the Cold War because the Soviet Union would gain more power if the European economies did not improve. America needed Europe to trade with them to keep their capitalist economy going, and both America and the Soviet Union needed Europe to support their economic plans […]

World War 2 during the Cold War

The Film “The Century of The Self” by Adam Curtis, opened with Sigmund fraud’s theory about the dangerous instinctual drives inside humans. His nephew, Edward Bernays eventually figured out how to use those drives to manipulate large quantities of people. Bernays was able to show companies that products can be marketed to someone’s unconscious desires and emotions. One of his earliest successes was getting women to smoke cigarettes because it was considered a taboo. Throughout the ’20s he was able […]

The Black Plague,World War 2, Cold War

Over time, humanity has faced a plethora of global extinction level events that could have driven us to the end of humanity. The Black Plague, World War 2, Cold War and several other global events have tested us and somehow we have withstood against all odds and are still thriving on earth. In the 21st century, we face a new crisis called HIV/AIDS, that needs to be contained as soon as possible before it can wipe out the entire human […]

The Civil Rights and its Role in the Cold War for America

In 1958, Jimmy Wilson would be the center of international attention. After he was sentenced to death in Alabama for stealing less than two dollars in change, Wilson’s case was thought to encapsulate the harsh consequences of Americans racism. This in turn brought to the surface international anxiety about the Americans race relations. Because United States was the leader of the free world, racism in the country would be an international concern. Racism has been the talk since before the […]

A Ghost of Post-Cold War Era

In the early 1990s, the condition of the world was more desirable than ever. The Cold War concluded and the forces of liberal democracy and free market capitalism had prevailed over communism. Intellectuals did not hesitate to bourgeon visions of optimistic forecasts about the future, such as Francis Fukuyama’s daring claim that the world was on the verge of the end of history, where liberal democracy would prevail as the supreme ideology indefinitely. Amid this enthusiasm came an ominous warning […]

Brutal the American Civil War

Historically war has proven to be an excellent facilitator in the spread of disease. War takes advantage of the crowded unsanitary conditions wounded soldiers are placed in. The movement of sick troops from one base to another spreads any infectious diseases from person to person often unexpectedly. The American Civil War was no exception to this phenomena, with diseases spreading rapidly throughout the troops of both sides. Disease and sickness played such a tremendous role in this war that the […]

Consequences of the Korean War

The Cold War was about how North Korea’s leader Kim Il Sung desired to have communist while the South Korean’s were against it. This horrific atrocity happened to take place in Korea on June 25th 1950. While the war had begun North Korea received plentiful help from China’s leader Mao Zedong and while the US and the Soviet Union’s took interest in helping the South Korean’s who were all opposed to communism. During the Korean war 178,000 Americans were killed […]

The Roots of Vietnam War

On August fourth, American destroyers were assaulted by North Vietnamese watch boats. The US painted this as an unjustifiable assault, while truly, the US was running enemy of uprising endeavors in North Vietnam (Moyer). After two days, another “assault” occurred against similar destroyers, which was a misperception (Moyer). After assaults in the Gulf of Tonkin, Congress passed the Gulf of Tonkin goal, permitting the president to take ‘every single vital measure, including the utilization of outfitted power’ against any assailant […]

Liberal Democracy and Capitalism after World War 1

The aftermath of the First World War proved it difficult for capitalism to be transformed into socialism in and peaceful way. A new ideology found its way in driving the world economy to respond to the changing economic and political spectrum that Britain and its empire was embedded. Capitalist competition was increasing amongst the states and their colonies. The nations were not only in need for a strong economy and political power but there was great scramble for military strength. […]

Introduction for Essay

Research paper on the cold war, thesis statement for the cold war.

The Cold War represented a prolonged period of economic, political, military, and social conflict between the United States and the Soviet Union. This strife lasted for several decades, ending only when the Soviet Union dissolved. Triggered by mutual threats and propaganda, the Cold War led to the fear of nuclear disaster and the emergence of anti-communist sentiment in both countries.

In the political sphere, the Cold War was marked by America’s determination to prevent the spread of Soviet communism to neighboring countries. By the war’s end, American officials concurred that the most effective defense strategy was “containment,” a policy designed to curb Soviet expansion.

The social aspect of the Cold War was embodied in the Yalta Conference, the second meeting of British Prime Minister Winston Churchill, Soviet Leader Joseph Stalin, and U.S. President Franklin D. Roosevelt. During the conference, the three leaders resolved to demand Germany’s unconditional surrender.

Economically, the Cold War was manifested through the Berlin Blockade, a Soviet attempt to restrict the ability of France, Great Britain, and the United States to access their sectors of Berlin. Russia further enforced the blockade by shutting down all highways, railroads, and canals from Germany into Berlin.

In military terms, the Cold War saw the erection of the Iron Curtain, a barrier created by the Soviet Union post-World War II to isolate itself from the West and other non-communist areas.

Argumentative Essay Examples on the Cold War

Both containment and the domino theory influenced U.S. foreign policy during the Cold War, as they were integral to defense strategies and preventing the spread of communism. For example, containment served as a defensive mechanism to thwart the spread of communism to other countries, an idea underpinning the domino theory. This theory posits that if one country adopts communism, others will follow suit. The “domino effect” was suggested by President Dwight D. Eisenhower due to the concerns of hesitant U.S. ambassadors. Presidents John F. Kennedy and Lyndon B. Johnson both invoked the domino theory to justify aid to South Vietnam.

U.S. foreign policy encompasses how the country interacts with other nations and establishes standards for international entities, corporations, and its own citizens. The four primary goals of U.S. foreign policy include preserving national security, promoting world peace, securing a global environment, and maintaining a balance of power among nations.

The Iron Curtain served as a political and military barrier, allowing the Soviet Union to isolate itself from non-communist regions. Originating from Stalin, this curtain of control saw the installation of communist regimes in Poland, Czechoslovakia, Yugoslavia, and Albania. In a significant 1946 speech in Missouri, Winston Churchill condemned the Soviet Union’s policies in Europe, acknowledging that the region was essentially under Soviet control.

The Vietnam War and the Korean War

The Vietnam War, a struggle between the communist government of North Vietnam and South Vietnam, backed by the United States, was intensified by the Cold War. The war concluded with communist forces seizing control of South Vietnam in 1975.

The Korean War, marking the first military action of the Cold War, saw the entry of American troops in support of South Korea. It was essentially a fight against the forces of international communism. The alternative would have been a broader war involving Russia and China. The Korean War represented the initial phase of a communist campaign to seize global control.

The Warsaw Pact and Its Significance

The Warsaw Pact, also known as the Treaty of Friendship, was established on May 14, 1955, by the Polish People’s Republic. It comprised the Soviet Union, Albania, and Czechoslovakia. This pact mandated member states to assist any member attacked by an external force, leading to a united military front. This agreement was held until 1991. According to History.com, “The rise of non-communist governments in other Eastern Bloc nations, such as Poland and Czechoslovakia, throughout 1990 and 1991 marked an effective end of the power of the Warsaw Pact.”

These defense mechanisms were intrinsic to U.S. foreign policy during the Cold War because the United States aimed to prevent countries like Korea and China from endorsing communism. The goal was to create a level playing field and avoid being outmatched.

Ideas of Conditions for GRIT during the Gorbachev Years

Based on the 1960s writings of Charles Osgood, Graduated Reciprocation in Tension Reduction (GRIT) is a strategy of unilateral and risk-free initiatives showing a willingness to start and continue a process of disarmament. The goal is to reduce a conflict spiral and create a mutual trust that will make negotiations easier. GRIT begins by announcing unilateral concessions publicly and making clear intentions; a state invites reciprocation but does not demand it. GRIT continues out concessions without demanding reciprocity, and it may take several concessions in order for it to be noticed. In order for it to be considered substantial, the concessions need to be moderately costly, slowly building in its cost.

This paper will analyze the conditions that made GRIT possible during the Gorbachev years of 1985-1989 between the Soviet Union and the United States. Although the conditions of the Soviet Union during the Gorbachev years made it possible to establish GRIT, ultimately, GRIT was not the sole cause of disarmament and reduced tensions between the two countries, but instead helped aid the negotiating environment. Conditions of the Cold War In order to understand why the conditions for GRIT worked, one must understand the conditions of the Cold War that did not make de-escalation possible. Even if both decision-makers from both countries wanted to de-escalate, they could not find common ground because they were unable to accurately draw inferences about the motives and intentions of each other.

Challenges to De-escalation during the Cold War

After World War II, the large superpowers were battling for global hegemon. Mistrust stems from the security dilemma: the means a state takes to increase its own security decreases the security for others. In the context of the Cold War, this meant the proliferation of nuclear weapons. In the 1950s, the United States viewed the Soviet Union’s proposals for German reunification as devices to divide NATO, weaken the West, and encourage neutralism. Additionally, expectations can largely determine how people construe other states’ behavior, and human psychologically suggests foreign policy officials interpret another state’s actions in a way that is consistent with their pre-existing beliefs.

Mistrust is irrational but also difficult to dispel, and in the context of the Cold War, the possibility of nuclear warfare heightened fears and paranoia, making trust even more difficult to achieve. Additionally, the propaganda of both countries fueled these fears on the government and domestic levels. Mistrust was at its peak during the Cold War. A key example is said mistrust is in the 1957-1962 Khrushchev years.

Due to the United States’ assumptions that the Soviet Union wanted to expand its communist propaganda, the US would set unrealistic suggestions for disarmament. Secretary of State John Foster, during a National Security Council meeting, once stated, ‘Disarmament proposals are probably an operation in public relations rather than actual disarmament proposals.’ Foster’s statement helps to understand the conditions of the Cold War that made it seem unlikely for the two countries to come together to reach conditions of reduced tension and an end to the Cold War.

Thesis Statement: "The War and Peace Panels were a turning point in...

Thesis Statement: "The War and Peace Panels were a turning point in the Cold War, as they showed the world that the United States and the Soviet Union could work together."

using these sources:

Chernobyl: History of a Tragedy by Serhii Plokhy
The War and Peace Panels: Missed Opportunities for Nuclear Arms Control by Michael Krepon
The Soviet Union and the United States: The Changing Relationship by James H. Bunn
The Cold War: A New History by John Lewis Gaddis
The Cambridge History of the Cold War by Melvyn P. Leffler

Craft a outline, you will need to connect the scholarly sources to their relevant sections and sub-sections in the outline, so that I can see where you expect the information that you've found connects to the outline that supports your overall thesis. Down below is an example...

I. Description of Old Kingdom Tomb Paintings A. Elite tomb construction and decoration (Petrie, Pyramids and Tombs, 2001 and Henry, Egyptian Dead, 1996) 1. Who usually commissioned the tombs (Petrie, 2001 and Henry, 1996) 2. Who maintained the tombs (Henry, 1996) B. Typical subject matter 1. Hunt scenes (Flebb, Egyptian Painting, 2005) a. Ti Watching, description and analysis b. Other hunt scenes from elite tombs (Flebb, 2005 and Petrie, 2001) 2. Offering scenes (Flebb, 2005 and Henry, 1996)

II. Egyptian religion and tomb painting (Kurg, Egyptian Gods, A-Z, 1997 and Smith, "Old Kingdom Iconography," 2009) A. Importance of tomb decoration to the afterlife (Smith, 2009 and Petrie, 2001) B. Religious significance of hunting in Egyptian society (Boris, "Social Status and the Egyptian Hunt," 1989) a. Apotropaic powers of hunting b. Hunting as a votive offering to Osiris

Answer & Explanation

I. The War and Peace Panels

. The War and Peace Panels were a turning point in the Cold War, as they showed the world that the United States and the Soviet Union could work together.
. The War and Peace Panels were a missed opportunity for nuclear arms control. The War and Peace Panels showed the changing relationship between the United States and the Soviet Union.

II. Chernobyl

. Chernobyl was a tragedy that could have been prevented.
. Chernobyl showed the world the dangers of nuclear power.
. Chernobyl had a lasting impact on the environment.

III. The Cold War

. The Cold War was a time of tension between the United States and the Soviet Union.
The Cold War led to the development of nuclear weapons.
The Cold War ended with the War and Peace Panels.

IV. Conclusion

. The War and Peace Panels were a turning point in the Cold War.
. The War and Peace Panels showed the changing relationship between the United States and the Soviet Union.
The War and Peace Panels were a missed opportunity for nuclear arms control.
The War and Peace Panels were a turning point in the Cold War, as they showed the world that the United States and the Soviet Union could work together. The War and Peace Panels were a missed opportunity for nuclear arms control. The War and Peace Panels demonstrated how the relationship between the United States and the Soviet Union had evolved over time.
The War and Peace Panels were a turning point in the Cold War, as they showed the world that the United States and the Soviet Union could work together.
The disaster at Chernobyl was one that should not have occurred and could have been avoided. The accident at Chernobyl demonstrated to the entire world the perils of utilizing nuclear power. The nuclear disaster at Chernobyl left an indelible mark on the surrounding ecosystem.
Relations between the United States of America and the Soviet Union were tight during the duration of the Cold War.
The development of nuclear weapons was a direct consequence of the conflict that occurred during the Cold War.The War and Peace Panels were the event that marked the end of the Cold War.
The War and Peace Panels were a turning point in the Cold War. The War and Peace Panels showed the changing relationship between the United States and the Soviet Union. The War and Peace Panels were a missed opportunity for nuclear arms control.
The War and Peace Panels were a turning point in the Cold War, as they showed the world that the United States and the Soviet Union could work together. The panels were a result of the first ever meeting between the leaders of the two superpowers and were a way to reduce tensions between the two countries.
The War and Peace Panels were a way to reduce the risk of nuclear war, and they showed that the United States and the Soviet Union could work together to reduce the threat of nuclear war.
The War and Peace Panels were a way to reduce the risk of nuclear war, and they showed that the United States and the Soviet Union could work together to reduce the threat of nuclear war. The War and Peace Panels were a turning point in the Cold War, as they showed the world that the United States and the Soviet Union could work together.
The War and Peace Panels were a turning point in the Cold War, as they showed the world that the United States and the Soviet Union could work together. The War and Peace Panels were a missed opportunity for nuclear arms control. The War and Peace Panels showed the changing relationship between the United States and the Soviet Union.
Chernobyl was a tragedy that could have been prevented. Chernobyl showed the world the dangers of nuclear power. The nuclear disaster at Chernobyl left an indelible mark on the surrounding ecosystem.
During the time of the Cold War, relations between the United States of America and the Soviet Union were tense. The creation of nuclear weapons was a direct result of the Cold War. The Cold War ended with the War and Peace Panels.

Hoffman, D. (2007). 1983: Turning Point of the Cold War. Security Index: A Russian Journal on International Security, 13(1), 135-146.

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Dissertations and Theses

Mikhail Gorbachev and His Role in the Peaceful Solution of the Cold War

Natalia Zemtsova , CUNY City College

Date of Award

Document type.

International Relations

M.Gorbachev, Cold War, Soviet Union

"The role of a political leader has always been important for understanding both domestic and world politics. The most significant historical events are usually associated in our minds with the images of the people who were directly involved and who were in charge of the most crucial decisions at that particular moment in time. Thus, analyzing the American Civil War, we always mention the great role and the achievements of Abraham Lincoln as the president of the United States. We cannot forget about the actions of such charismatic leaders as Adolf Hitler, Josef Stalin, Winston Churchill, and Franklin D. Roosevelt when we think about the brutal events and the outcome of the World War II. Or, for example, the Cuban Missile Crisis and its peaceful solution went down in history highlighting roles of John F. Kennedy and Nikita Khrushchev in the tense negotiations during the confrontation. This thesis is built as a single-case study discovering the personality of Mikhail Gorbachev as a leader and his role in the peaceful solution of the Cold War. It shows how particular social and political-economic backgrounds shaped certain features of his character, and how those features influenced his political decisions later on. Mikhail Gorbachev, the first and the last President of the USSR, is a perfect example of a leader who acted in a new unique historical situation without much of theoretical guidance from the past. Under Gorbachev, the Soviet Union started to shift from socialism towards a new political regime that entitled significant changes in international politics."

Recommended Citation

Zemtsova, Natalia, "Mikhail Gorbachev and His Role in the Peaceful Solution of the Cold War" (2011). CUNY Academic Works. https://academicworks.cuny.edu/cc_etds_theses/49

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The Cold War: US Foreign Policy Essay

Introduction.

One critical question that bogs the minds of most people when talking about the Cold War is the concern of securing the national interests of the United States. A substantial number of people argue that the Cold War, which lasted for four decades, was a contest of ideologies whereby the United States sought to spread its national interests across the globe. The development of the war had implications on the political and cultural standing of the United States.

The Cold War was an ideological war in which the United States and the Soviet Union were engaged in a war whereby each country sought to propagate its policies through the pursuance of different courses in different parts of the world. In this paper, it is argued that the nature of policy goals that were pursued in the Cold War period had implications on the political and cultural setup of the United States.

This paper discusses the Cold War. The paper seeks to explore issues surrounding the US foreign policy in the course of the war, as well as the implications of the war on the United States’ society and culture.

The Cold War marked a period in the world history after the Second World War. The two main countries that battled in the war are the United States and the Soviet Union. This war was not an actual physical battle between the two countries, but it entailed the utilization of foreign policy by both countries to advance national ideologies.

However, proxy wars were fought as the two countries applied their containment strategies in proxy nations in different regions of the world. The United States embraced the ideology of capitalism, while the Soviet Union embraced communism. At the end of the Second World War, the United States insisted on the pursuance of a course that was meant to see the world pursue self-determination and the continuity of free trade.

On the other hand, the Soviet Union focused on molding its influence on Eastern Europe and the restructuring of its economy to gain power and influence in the region and the world at large. The most critical question that rings in the mind of most people concerns the possibilities of avoiding the Cold War at that time, given the political status of the world during the post-World War II.

Most of the commentators argue that the war could not have been easily avoided, given that a political vacuum prevailed in the world after the Second World War. The United States and the Soviet Union, which were the two main powers in the bipolar world order, engaged in a battle that resulted in a unipolar state, with the United States becoming the key dominant power in the world.

According to Kennan (para. 4), one main thing in the Cold War was the application of containment strategies that were embedded in the foreign policy activities. The foreign policy of the United States, just after the end of the Second World War, was shifted to containing the Soviet Union. What ought to be asked is whether the containment strategy of the US was welcome by the citizens of the country.

The other question concerns the impact of the pursuance of the containment strategy by the United States during the Cold War on the American society. Several documents have been authored on the historical developments in the post-World War II period, which marked the period of the Cold War. Most of the documents point to the political discourse in the Cold War period. The Cold War was a political development, thus it is quite difficult to eliminate the question of political discourse when talking about the Cold War.

Arguing from the perspective of the world wars, the distribution of power was one of the main issues that shaped the developments at the international stage during the world wars. The cold war was, therefore, an extension of power politics in the international arena; only that this point in time, the power struggle shifted to two states in the world (Truman para. 1).

According to “NSC 68 and the Ideological Cold War” (591), both the United States and the Soviet Union, which were the main powers that presented a hegemonic state in the international arena, were involved in the pursuance of different policies that were aimed at consolidating power. The United States under its leaders presented issues in the foreign countries in the manner that presented the attention of its citizens and the search for support in implementing the foreign policies of the country.

An example that can be given here is the presentation of the situation in Greek by Harry Truman, the then US President. Truman argued that the situation that prevailed in Greece had implications on the national security of the United States as he addressed the US Congress. The address pointed out that the Greek government was being negatively affected by the communistic advancements, a situation that warranted the support of the United States (Truman para. 1-5).

According to Lippmann (para. 1), the policy of containment used during the Cold War period called for the use of different tactics by the players in the war. The United States was, therefore, forced to be strategic in terms of crafting and implementing its foreign policy to match the strategies of the Soviet Union.

There was an expansive pressure on the United States, which resulted from the policies of the Soviet Union. The main way through which the United States would respond to the pressure was, therefore, through the deployment of diplomatic tactics in containing the Soviet Union’s influence in the world. Foreign policies were vital in the planning and implementation of containment strategies since it authorized the actions of the US government.

This has shaped the culture of the United States in such a way that policies are often subjected to the public. The United States is highly organized based on the principles of participation and democracy. The question of policy support in the United States also came out during the Cold War in which the US was quite active in terms of the search for policy support locally.

The other aspect of culture and society in the United States as was depicted by the Cold War revolves around the question of freedom in terms of policy making and participation. Capitalism, which is an ideology that was fully backed by the United States, entails the embrace of diversities of people in diverse sectors.

The free trade of ideas is, therefore, one of the most critical components of a free market of ideas. While this ought to be the nature of the American society, there are still a lot of pointers to the embrace of absolutism in the country. A free society ought to give each individual a chance to exercise and pursue his or her goals, which is contrary to what the United States policy entailed during the Cold War (“NSC 68 and the Ideological Cold War” para 2-5).

The civil rights movement that was experienced in the United States in the course of the Cold War can be taken as one of the indicators of the lack of embrace of free ideas and the value of every individual course, which are core features of capitalism. The differences in terms of race came out strongly during the Cold War. While the United States struggled a lot to contain the actions of the Russians through policy, it did less in pursuing a domestic policy to contain racial segregation within the country.

The United States government concentrated a lot on the pursuance of foreign policy, rather than addressing the issue of civil rights in the country. The American society can be depicted as an expansionist society due to a lot of focus on foreign policy at the expense of addressing the domestic issues (President’s Commission on Civil Rights para. 1-4).

According to McCarthy (para. 2), the pacification of the world seemed to be the main Agenda of the United States. This was depicted by its efforts to see the establishment of the United Nations during the Second World War. However, the actions of hatred and the support of proxy battles was an order of the Cold War, which made it impossible to attain the goals of peaceful existence of people in the world.

This paper has explored the Cold War and how the domestic and foreign policy of the United States was shaped during the war. From the discussion, it has come out that the foreign policy goals of the United States during the early periods of the war were largely centered on containing Russia. This barred the US from pursuing domestic policies that were critical in addressing domestic issues.

Works Cited

Kennan, George, F. The Sources of Soviet Conduct , 1947. Web.

McCarthy, Joseph. Enemies from Within , 1950. Web. http://historymatters.gmu.edu/d/6456/

NSC 68 and the Ideological Cold War , 1950.

President’s Commission on Civil Rights. To Secure These Rights , 1947.

Truman, Harry S. Excerpts from the Truman Doctrine , 1947.

Walter Lippmann. A Critique of Containment , 1947.

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IvyPanda. (2019, May 27). The Cold War: US Foreign Policy. https://ivypanda.com/essays/the-cold-war-2/

"The Cold War: US Foreign Policy." IvyPanda , 27 May 2019, ivypanda.com/essays/the-cold-war-2/.

IvyPanda . (2019) 'The Cold War: US Foreign Policy'. 27 May.

IvyPanda . 2019. "The Cold War: US Foreign Policy." May 27, 2019. https://ivypanda.com/essays/the-cold-war-2/.

1. IvyPanda . "The Cold War: US Foreign Policy." May 27, 2019. https://ivypanda.com/essays/the-cold-war-2/.

Bibliography

IvyPanda . "The Cold War: US Foreign Policy." May 27, 2019. https://ivypanda.com/essays/the-cold-war-2/.

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