The Crises of the Cold War and Detente 1960-1980

Question 1

How far was the U2 Crisis a threat to world peace?

Answer 1

Direct confrontation between the USA and the USSR
USA/Johnson refused to apologise
Khrushchev pulled out of the Paris Peace Conference, having a negative impact on future relations
Brought an end to ‘peaceful coexistence’ and the Thaw.
However USSR saw this as a propaganda victory with the USA humiliated and there seemed no prospect of a direct conflict over the issue.

Question 2

What was the U2 Crisis?

Answer 2

U2 spy plane shot down

Gary Powers