The Widening of the Cold War, 1949–1955: US Containment in Action in Asia - NSC-68

Question 1

What was the NSC-68?

Answer 1

• Classified report issued by the United States National Security Council
• Emphasised need for building USA’s political, economic and military power

Question 2

When was it issued?

Answer 2

• Issued on 14 April, 1950

- Approved by Truman on 30 September, 1950

Question 3

What did the NSC-68 entail?

Answer 3

• Wanted to increase air, ground and sea strength and atomic capabilities to deter war
• Highlights need for military readiness to deter Soviet aggression
• Act as source of encouragement to nations resisting Soviet threat
• Provide aid to non-Soviet nations that are willing to contribute to US security
• Increase their economic and political stability and their military capability

Question 4

What factors helped contribute to the creation of NSC-68?

Answer 4

• On 29 August, 1949 Soviets successfully detonated their first atomic bomb
• USA’s nuclear monopoly ended
• China becomes communist

Question 5

How did Truman and Congress first react to NSC-68 and what changed their mind?

Answer 5

• Dean G. Acheson struggled in persuading Congress and Truman to accept it
• Outbreak of Korean War convinced them

Question 6

What changes did NSC-68 lead to?

Answer 6

• More military emphasis on application of containment
• In 1950, military budget was $60 billion
• Rose to $135 billion in 1951
• 1950-53, Truman administration almost tripled defence spending as a % of GDP from 5 to 14.2%