Impact of the Korean War on domestic policy Flashcards
Why and how did the Korean War break out?
It broke out on the 25th of June 1950 when North Korean soldiers with the help of supplies and advisors from the USSR launched a full scale invasion of the South.
What was Truman’s initial stance on the Korean War?
As Soviet soldiers didn’t take part directly in the war Truman wanted to keep the war limited by keeping the North Koreans in North Korea. When asked about his response he said that it was a UN policing operation not the USA going to war which may have led to mass hysteria.
How many US soldiers served in Korea and how many died?
The war was a UN operation with 260’000 US combat soldiers and never any more than 35’000 from the other 15 nations. The Death toll was 33’629 from combat and the border did not change.
Why was there significant clashing between Truman and General MacArthur?
He had criticized Truman for his emphasis on having a limited war and openly suggested the use of Atomic bombs on China which helped fuel Republican backlash. His actions led to the escalation of the conflict as he bombed bridges along the Yalu river and eventually marched up to the river leading to China joining the war. He was sacked on April 11th 1951.
How did the Korean War influence the role of the President in policy creation?
It shifted the attention away from domestic policy and towards international policy, as all domestic legislation had to go through congress whilst the President had more freedom with international affairs.
How did the Korean War effect the role of congress in the Cold War?
Congress was now expected to take the reigns of social welfare after the role had drifted towards the President during FDR’s presidency.
Why did the Republicans begin to pitch themselves as a true opposition after the war?
They were tired of being part of a cooperative congress, which was made worse by the 1949 elections in which many Republicans lost their seats including a number of Republicans that were willing to cooperate with Truman. Truman’s position was then further worsened by the Second Red scare and the Korean War.
Give evidence for the Republicans successfully placing pressure on the Democrats again?
In the 1950 Elections the Republicans won 5 seats in the senate and 28 in the House which drifted favour significantly towards the Republicans. This began the process of favour moving towards the Republicans.
Why did the Korean war create issues regarding costs?
Defence spending hit an all time high of 14% of GNP which was an immense commitment. Furthermore although Truman did try raise taxes to counter it there was still some borrowing which gave the Republicans more support.
