Cold War History

Cold War Map

Map of the Cold War

The Cold War is used to describe a period of time when there was conflict between the United States and the Soviet Union. This tension lasted from the end of World War II until 1989. The Cold War history is centered on the fact that the United States and the Western powers felt threatened by the Soviet’s expansionist’s policy. In addition, the Soviet had a growing fear of incursion from the West.

In a famous speech in Cold War history, Winston Churchill warned about the threat that lay behind the “iron curtain” of the Communists. At this time the US gave assistance to Greece and turkey under the Truman doctrine. They also enacted the Marshall plan in an effort to restore growth in the European Union. They were afraid with out this aid communism would continue to rise.

Through out Cold War history the West’s primary goal was to simply keep the communists states within their own borders. However, in 1948 the Soviet Union challenged this policy by blocking the United States from bringing in air supplies. This caused the US to form NATO with 11 other western nations. The Communist states reacted by forming the Warsaw Treaty Organization in 1955.

Nike Missle Site, California

Nike Missle Site, California

Throughout the 1950’s and 60’s the European nations in the Western alliance began to change. France became closer to Eastern Europe and considered leaving NATO. In addition, American involvement in the Vietnam War caused additional conflict with its European allies. Also, during this time Romania took control of the communist’s states and departed from many of the previous policies.

Finally the Cold War history came to an end between 1989 and 1991. During this time the Berlin Wall was brought down and the Communist dictatorship came to an end. In addition, the Soviet Union collapsed and Germany was reunified.