THE IMPACT OF THE KOREAN WAR Flashcards
How many Korean casualties were there during the war?
1.3 million (almost equal numbers from the North and the South).
What proportion of Korean civilians were killed during the war?
1 in 10
What other negative effects did the war have on Korea?
Industry and agriculture was in ruin, and millions of civilians were forced to flee their homes.
How many South Korean soldiers died during the war?
415,000 soldiers
How many American soldiers died during the war?
33,000 soldiers
By how much did American defense spending rise during the war?
Increased significantly from $12 billion to $60 billion.
How many Chinese casualties were there during the war?
Over half a million
What was placed on China during the war following support from the UN?
A trade embargo (ban)
What organisation was created in 1954, which aimed to contain communism in Asia?
The South East Asia Treaty Organisation (SEATO)
What happened to relations between China and the US after the war?
Relations became extremely tense. China had shown itself to be committed to the spread of communism and a direct threat to the values of the US.
What happened to relations between the US and USSR after the war?
There was further tension and competition. The USSR committed themselves further in the expensive nuclear arms race with America
What happened to relations between China and the USSR after the Korean War?
With the trade embargo placed on China during the war, China became more dependent on the USSR. However, tensions began to develop, as Soviet involvement in the war had been limited to air support and equipment, not troops.
Did America meet its aims during the Korean War?
Yes – South Korea remained an independent country, and communism had been successful contained.
No – North Korea remained communist (“roll back” had failed).
Did China meet its aims during the Korean War?
Yes – China established its international reputation as a strong, military power in the world. North Korea remained communist and a “buffer state” protecting China’s borders.
No – China’s involvement in the war had not succeeded in turning South Korea into a Communist country.
Did the USSR meet its aims during the Korean war?
Yes – The USSR had provided military support (short of troops), ensuring that North Korea remained a Communist country.
No – North Korea did not successfully take over the South, and communism had not spread.
