Chapter 20

What was the Cold War?

After World War II, the Soviet Union and the United States began to experience tension due to their differences.

Berlin Wall

Berlin located in East Germany (German capital). Divided into East and West Berlin. Separated by a wall to prevent East Berliners from escaping to democratic West Berlin

Describe France's recovery following World War II

Charles de Gaulle, a war hero, becomes President of France. In 1958 a new constitution was written and the government became the "5th Republic". It is the modern government & constitution

Proxy Wars & examples

Conflicts: Although the Soviet Union and the United States never fought, the United States did fight against communism in many areas. These are often referred to as proxy wars: Korean, Cuba, and Vietnam

What was the EEC?

European Economic Community (EEC). A bloc of European democratic countries. Traded freely with one another. Charged more for goods produced outside of the EEC. Eventually becomes the modern European Union

Describe West Germany's recovery following World War II

Extremely damaged following WWII. Adopted democratic rule. From 1950-1965, the economy improved and unemployment was .4%

Describe Germany becoming divided.

In 1948 Germany becomes divided into East Germany and West Germany. West Germany becomes democratic East Germany is ruled by the Soviet Union

What caused tension in Europe following World War II?

In the 1940s, Europe became divided over how to deal with Eastern European nations. The United States & Britain wanted them to be free. The Soviet Union wanted them to be part of the Soviet Union to provide a buffer zone between democracy and communism.

Describe the reign of Khrushchev

In the 1950s, Nikita Khrushchev became leader of the USSR. He reversed many Stalin's policies: Stopped killings, Increase production of consumer goods, Focus on agriculture. Agriculture efforts failed. Khrushchev also increased military spending due to the arms race. Placed missiles in Cuba, which was wildly unpopular in the USSR. He was removed from power in 1964

How did the role of women change following World War II?

Initailly, they had children after WWII. Then in the 1960s a significant number entered the workforce. This challenged the traditional role of women

Two basic alliances of the Cold War

NATO: Formed to oppose the Soviet Union (Democratic Europeans countries & the U.S.(West) Warsaw Pact: Formed to oppose NATO (Soviet Union and Eastern European countries(East)

How the structure of society change following World War II?

People began moving from rural to urban areas. The middle class grew quickly. Allowed people to buy more things - consumerism

Arms Race

The S.U. and the U.S. both created nuclear weapons. Competed to see who could have the most weapons

Describe the takeover of Eastern Europe

The Soviet Union had taken over most Eastern European countries shortly after WWII. This took place over the course of three years. The acceptance of communist rule by the people was varied.

Difference between the United States and Soviet Union in government & economy

United States favored democracy & capitalism. Soviet Union favored communism

Difference(s) between Western & Eastern Europe?

Western Europe- Remained democratic and capitalistic Eastern Europe- Became communist in government and the economy

Describe the reign of Stalin

World War II devastated the Soviet Union. In order to recover, Stalin focused on producing goods to sell to other countries. Did not produce many consumer goods for his own people Consequences:Industry increased greatly, People were poor, Very little agriculture, Housing shortage, Killed those who opposed his policies