Cold War Key Events and Concepts

The video explains how the U.S. used containment policies during the Cold War to prevent the spread of communism led by the Soviet Union. Post-WWII Europe faced economic instability, which Stalin saw as an opportunity to expand communism. The Yalta and Potsdam Conferences shaped post-war Europe, dividing Germany and Berlin. Despite promises, Stalin did not hold free elections or attack Japan. The spread of communism led to the Iron Curtain, dividing East and West. The U.S. implemented the Marshall Plan and NATO to counteract Soviet influence and stabilize Western Europe.

What was the primary goal of the United States' containment policies during the Cold War?

• To expand democracy worldwide

• To stop the spread of Communism

• To increase economic growth

• To form new alliances

Why was Europe economically unstable after World War II?

• Because of the large expenses of war

• Due to the lack of natural resources

• Because of political disagreements

• Due to a lack of skilled labor

What was Stalin's view on the governance of Eastern Europe?

• He wanted to withdraw Soviet influence

• He supported democratic systems

• He wanted to create a buffer zone

• He wanted free elections

Who were the leaders present at the Yalta Conference?

• Eisenhower, De Gaulle, and Stalin

• Truman, Atley, and Stalin

• Truman, Churchill, and Stalin

• Churchill, Roosevelt, and Stalin

What was the outcome of the Potsdam Conference regarding Germany?

• Germany was unified

• Germany was divided into occupation zones

• Germany was left independent

• Germany was annexed by the Soviet Union

Which countries were part of the unified West Berlin?

• France, Britain, and America

• Germany, Italy, and Spain

• Russia, Poland, and Hungary

• Norway, Sweden, and Finland

What was the Iron Curtain?

• A military alliance

• A trade agreement

• A physical barrier between East and West Europe

• A division between democratic West and Communist East

What was the purpose of the Marshall Plan?

• To establish new trade routes

• To solve economic instability in Europe

• To provide military aid

• To promote cultural exchange

How did NATO contribute to the Cold War dynamics?

• By dissolving European alliances

• By promoting Soviet policies

• By creating a defense system against the Soviet Union

• By isolating the United States

What was the theorized domino effect during the Cold War?

• If one nation fell to democracy, others would follow

• If one nation fell to Communism, others would follow

• If one nation developed economically, others would follow

• If one nation gained independence, others would follow