Unit 8: Topic 1 - Setting the Stage

Question 1

Cold War

Answer 1

The Cold War was an open yet restricted rivalry between the US and the USSR. It began almost immediately after WWII due to both countries becoming super powers in the new world.

Question 2

Nuclear Proliferation

Answer 2

Nuclear Proliferation is spreading atomic weapons or nuclear technology to other countries that didn’t initially have them. This act shifted the balance of power after WWII and gave countries such as Israel power in their respective area.

Question 3

Yalta Conference

Answer 3

The Yalta Conference was a meeting between the Big 3 of WWII to decide what to do with Germany and Europe after WWII. They split up Germany and its empire between themselves and France.

Question 4

Truman Doctrine

Answer 4

The Truman Doctrine stated that the US would provide “support for democracies against authoritarian threats.” In other words, the US would help countries that were fighting against communism

Question 5

Self-Determination

Answer 5

The process by which a country determines its statehood and forms its allegiances and government. Self-Determination was a common theme after WWII, as many countries supported decolonization. Self-Determination allowed for new countries to be created; however, many of these countries relied on superpowers for support.

Question 6

Home Rule

Answer 6

Home rule is the rule of a colony, dependent country, or region by its citizens. Home rule empowers the citizens and is beneficial to self-determination.

Question 7

UN Charter

Answer 7

The UN charter is the founding document of the UN which states the rights and obligations of member states and establishes the principal organs and procedures of the UN. The charter protects self determination.

Question 8

Civil Disobedience

Answer 8

Civil Disobedience is the refusal to comply with specific laws or to pay taxes and fines as a peaceful form of political protest.