Flashpoints

Question 1

The Soviet invasion of Afghanistan 1979

Answer 1

• Saw Afghanistan as in its sphere of influence
• When President Taraki was assassinated, USSR felt it’s influence threatened
• Brezhnev ordered Soviet troops to invade Afghanistan
• Karmal was made president and Amin and many of his supporters were killed
• Rebels known as the Mujahideen resisted the troops

Question 2

Why was Carter worried about the the invasion of Afghanistan?

Answer 2

• Worried that the USSR would get more control in the Middle East
• Might mean soviet influence in Iran and block the Persian gulf - main oil supplier for USA

Question 3

The Carter Doctrine 1980

Answer 3

• Threatened to use force if the USSR attempted to control the Persian Gulf
• No trade with the Soviet Union
• The USA provided assistance to the Mujahideen

Question 4

The Olympic Boycotts 1980

Answer 4

• The USA boycotted the 1980 Olympics held in Moscow
• The USSR boycotted the 1984 Olympics in Los Angeles

Question 5

SDI Strategic Defence Initiative - Star Wars 1983

Answer 5

• A plan to have satallites, lasers and mirrors in space that would destroy nuclear missiles before they reach the USA