Chapter 8: Brinkmanship Flashcards
There was much continuity when the Eisenhower administration took over from Truman. What did they both agree on?
The USA must retain its influence in Asia, Soviet Union was a big threat and seeked expansionism, USA must maintain strong nuclear arsenal and retain sufficient influence in Western Europe
What did Eisenhower reject of Truman’s policies?
Truman’s commitment to a major expansion, regardless of cost, of the USA’s conventional forces. Also believed that containment was inefficient, and instead advocated the ‘New Look.
When was the ‘New Look’ policy unveiled?
October 1953
Who created the ‘New Look’ policy?
John Foster Dulles
Why was the New Look policy created?
Communism, in their beliefs, had simply created a stalemate and Dulles wanted to roll back communism and Moscow’s power, to bring the Cold War to a successful conclusion for the USA.
What was a fundamental aspect of the New Look policy?
Reducing the dominance of Soviet communism globally.
Despite Eisenhower’s acceptance of the New Look policy, what did he insist?
It could only be carried out through peaceful means. It is significant that Eisenhower never attempted to undermine the USSR’s sphere of influence or ‘liberate’ any pro-Soviet communist states.
What assumed a greater significance under Eisenhower?
Nuclear weaponry.
Why was there to be an increased reliance on nuclear weaponry through Eisenhower’s administration?
Containment was a strategy that demanded a global reaction to any communist expansion that may occur.
What was the NSC 162/2 report of October 1953?
It emphasised the view that the most effective way to deter aggression against Western Europe was for the USA to forcefully display its determination to use nuclear weapons and its nuclar superiority against any aggressor.
What was Dulles’ policy of Brinkmanship?
The USA’s use of nuclear strength to attempt to force agreements from communist opponents, up to the very point when a nuclear war mght break out, with no intention of actually engaging in a war.
