KEY TERMS Key Terms and People to Know for the Regents Exam
Cold War / Containment
After WWII, America (capitalist/democratic) and the Soviet Union (communist) engaged in a Cold War (no direct fighting) over global influence and power. America’s main foreign policy goal was to CONTAIN the spread of communism.
Truman Doctrine
The Soviet Union threatened to take over Greece and Turkey, so President Truman sent aid (money, weapons, tanks, and ships) to Greece and Turkey. This was another example of America’s policy of containment.
Marshall Plan
In an effort to contain communism, the US provided money to European countries to help them rebuild after WWII. This aid ensured that these countries would be allies with the US instead of turning to the Soviets and communism.
Korean War
After communist North Korea invaded South Korea, the US joined the war to keep communism contained in Asia. The war ended in a draw at the 38th Parallel. During the war, Truman fired General MacArthur for challenging Truman’s military control.
Eisenhower Doctrine
When Eisenhower was president, he followed Truman’s example and promised aid to the Middle East to resist the expansion of communist influence in the area. This was yet another example of America’s policy of containment.