March 25 Reading (Reagan)

Question 1

Lebanon

Answer 1

Reagan’s decision to deploy Marines in Lebanon faced criticism and confusion over the purpose of involvement. He eventually withdrew them in 1984 due to the deteriorating situation (like Nixons Vietnam withdrawal)

Question 2

Grenada

Answer 2

Reagan ordered a military intervention in Grenada following a coup. It aimed to depose General Hudson Austin, who was viewed as a communist threat. Resulted in the formation of a new government

Question 3

Falklands War

Answer 3

The Argentine junta’s seizure of the Falkland Islands led to a war with Britian in 1982. The islands had minimal strategic or economic value, but nationalism fueld the conflict. Resulted in British victory

Question 4

Reagan’s Priorities

Answer 4

Reagan’s decision to invade Grenada, without consulting Britain, strained relations despite earlier goodwill from the Falklands War.

Question 5

Reagan’s Focus on Central America

Answer 5

Reagan’s foreign policy prioritized Central America as a critical area, different from his predecessors, feared Nicaragua could become another Cuba annd a base for Soviet influence

Question 6

Reagan’s Policy Approach

Answer 6

Reagan opposed the Sandinista regime (Nicaragua) and sought to support existing governments in the region (despite criticism of their human rights records). Froze aid to Nicaragua.

Question 7

Opposition and Criticism

Answer 7

Reagan faced opposition from Congress and the public, with many seeing his policies similar to Vietnam. Critics believed that military support to right-wing governments increased instability and called for economic aid to leftist forces

Question 8

Congressional Stalemate

Answer 8

Despite Reagan’s efforts to justify his policies and increase pressure, Congressional opposition led to a stalemate. Reagan struggled to secure funcing for militaray operations in Central America

Question 9

Events in El Salvador and Nicaragua

Answer 9

Presidential elections in El Salvador in March 1984 saw a victory for the more moderate candidate supported by the United States. However, Contra activities, supported by the CIA, continued to escalate tensions with Nicaragua, further complicating American policy goals in the region

Question 10

Reagan’s Goals in Soviet Relations

Answer 10

Reagan aimed for peace, arms control, reduction in nuclear arsenals, and cooperation with the Soviet Union on various issues such as environmental problems

Question 11

Reagan’s Tactics

Answer 11

Included harsh rhetoric, such as labeling the Soviet Union as an “evil empire”, which was criticized by many for hindering the prospects of peace

Question 12

Arms Control and European Concerns

Answer 12

Reagan rejected Carter’s approach of restraint and accommodations towards the Soviets, opting for a policy of military buildup to negotiate from a position of strength. Increased tension, particulaly in Europe

Question 13

Strategic Weapons and Costs

Answer 13

Both the United States and Soviet Union had amassed huge arsenals of nuclear weapons, leading to enormous costs and heightened tensions. Negotiations on arms control were seen as propaganda by both sides