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During the period 1945-1992, how did the Cold War originate and develop in Europe? (100) - Leaving Cert History - Question 1 - 2022
Question 1
During the period 1945-1992, how did the Cold War originate and develop in Europe? (100)
Worked Solution & Example Answer:During the period 1945-1992, how did the Cold War originate and develop in Europe? (100) - Leaving Cert History - Question 1 - 2022
Step 1
How did the Cold War originate?
Answer
The Cold War originated from the ideological conflict between the United States and the Soviet Union post-World War II. This tension was fueled by several factors:
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Ideological Differences: The U.S. championed capitalism and democracy, while the USSR advocated for communism. This fundamental clash heightened suspicions and hostility.
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Post-War Territorial Changes: The division of Europe into East and West following World War II established a clear demarcation zone between capitalist and communist states, further entrenching the conflict.
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Nuclear Arms Race: The development of nuclear weapons by both superpowers led to a climate of fear and competition, as each side sought to deter the other via military strength.
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Formation of Military Alliances: Initiatives like NATO (1949) and the Warsaw Pact (1955) institutionalized the divide, securing collective defense mechanisms that underscored the ongoing rivalry.
Overall, the combination of ideological opposition, military alliances, and an arms race initiated the conflict that characterized the Cold War.
Step 2
How did the Cold War develop?
Answer
The Cold War developed through several key events that pushed the U.S. and the USSR into direct and indirect conflict:
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Berlin Blockade (1948-1949): The Soviet Union's attempt to take control of Berlin led to the United States and its allies organizing the Berlin Airlift, marking a significant escalation in tensions.
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Korean War (1950-1953): The U.S. intervention to support South Korea against the North, backed by the Soviet Union and China, showcased the global reach of the Cold War and its military implications.
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Cuban Missile Crisis (1962): This 13-day confrontation brought the superpowers to the brink of nuclear war, highlighting the serious risks of the Cold War and leading to a period of détente.
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End of the Cold War (1991): The dissolution of the Soviet Union marked the end of Cold War hostilities, primarily due to internal economic issues, reform movements in Eastern Europe, and the eventual fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989. This culminated in the loss of influence for the USSR across Europe.