Cold War Rivalries 1955-63

Question 1

The extension of the arms race

Answer 1

One side was peaceful coexistence and other was launch of Sputnik and stockpiling weapons
Partly due to challenge between Mao and Khrushchev
After Cuban missile crisis both reviewed nuclear policies
Arms race 1950s- US successfully tested H bomb March 1954
Sept 1954- USSR had similar technology and tested H bomb by 1955
1957- Eisenhower commissioned Gaithersburg report to reinforce that USA controlled the nuclear arms race
Fear as Soviet’s had but first satellite into orbit Oct 1957
US increased defence spending and developments on nuclear missiles

Question 2

The Space race, Sputnik and space flight

Answer 2

Oct 1957, US claimed first victory launching first satellite to orbit the earth
Called Sputnik
US govt authorised $1 billion for technological development in this field
USA successfully launched 63 space missions by 1962

Question 3

The Berlin crisis

Answer 3

27th Nov 1958 USSR issued six-month ultimatum to the West
Demanded withdrawal of Western troops form Berlin and making it a free city
31st December- rejected ultimatum
Paris conference talks had been interrupted due to spy plane

Question 4

Significance and impact of The Berlin Wall

Answer 4

Increased number of refugees escaping to the west via Berlin
Ulbricht, East German leader said needed action
13th August 1961- work of wall began
Wire fences to concrete wall
4 recognised crossing points
Kennedy said it was unacceptable, however it was a better alternative than war
Enabled avoidance of nuclear confrontation