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Topic 1 - Rise of the Superpowers - Junior Cycle History - Question 1 - 2015
Question 1
Topic 1 - Rise of the Superpowers. (i) Why did the USA and the USSR become known as the Superpowers? (4) (ii) Write an account of one of the following: (a) Korea... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Topic 1 - Rise of the Superpowers - Junior Cycle History - Question 1 - 2015
Step 1
Why did the USA and the USSR become known as the Superpowers?
Answer
The USA and the USSR became known as superpowers due to their significant military, political, and economic influence after World War II.
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Military Strength: Both nations possessed advanced military technology and nuclear weapons, allowing them to exert power globally. The formation of military alliances, like NATO for the USA and the Warsaw Pact for the USSR, further solidified their influence.
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Ideological Conflict: Their opposing ideologies—capitalism versus communism—created a narrative of rivalry and competition, leading to their recognition as the two dominant global forces.
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Economic Power: The USA emerged as an economic powerhouse, while the USSR sought to spread its model worldwide. Economic aid programs, like the Marshall Plan from the USA, further extended their geopolitical reach.
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Global Presence: Both nations were deeply involved in international affairs, using diplomacy and proxy wars to influence regions across the globe, establishing themselves as the superpowers of the post-war era.
Step 2
Write an account of one of the following: (a) Korean War 1950-1953.
Answer
The Korean War (1950-1953)
The Korean War was a pivotal conflict that arose from the division of Korea into North and South after World War II, leading to a military engagement from 1950 to 1953.
Causes of the War
- Division of Korea: After Japan's defeat in 1945, Korea was divided at the 38th parallel into two separate governments: the communist North, supported by the USSR, and the democratic South, backed by the USA.
- Rising Tensions: Border skirmishes and ideological differences escalated tensions, leading both sides to prepare for potential conflict.
Outbreak of War
On June 25, 1950, North Korean troops invaded South Korea, aiming to unify the country under communist rule. The sudden attack caught the South by surprise, prompting a rapid response.
International Response
The United Nations, led by the USA, intervened on behalf of South Korea, forming a coalition to repel the invasion. General Douglas MacArthur was appointed to command the forces, launching a successful counter-offensive at Inchon.
The Stalemate
As the war progressed, it became a bloody stalemate with neither side able to secure a decisive victory. The conflict saw brutal battles and heavy casualties.
Armistice and Aftermath
The war ended with an armistice on July 27, 1953, restoring the border near the 38th parallel. However, no formal peace treaty was signed, leaving Korea technically still at war. The conflict solidified the division of Korea and entrenched Cold War divisions.