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During the period 1945-1989, what was the importance for US foreign policy of one or more of the following: Berlin; Korea; Cuba? - Leaving Cert History - Question 1 - 2015
Question 1
During the period 1945-1989, what was the importance for US foreign policy of one or more of the following: Berlin; Korea; Cuba?
Worked Solution & Example Answer:During the period 1945-1989, what was the importance for US foreign policy of one or more of the following: Berlin; Korea; Cuba? - Leaving Cert History - Question 1 - 2015
Step 1
Importance of Berlin
Answer
The Berlin crisis was pivotal in shaping US foreign policy during the Cold War. In 1949, the Soviet Union blockaded Berlin, prompting the US to respond with the Berlin Airlift, which symbolized American commitment to contain communism. This event solidified the US's role as a global superpower and established the doctrine of containment as a core component of its foreign policy.
Step 2
Importance of Korea
Answer
The Korean War (1950-1953) was significant as it marked the first military engagement of the Cold War where the US intervened to prevent the spread of communism in Asia. The US's involvement exemplified its willingness to use military force to uphold its policy of containment. The war ended in a stalemate, but it demonstrated the US's commitment to its allies in Asia.
Step 3
Importance of Cuba
Answer
Cuba became a focal point of US foreign policy following the Cuban Revolution in 1959. The US was alarmed by the establishment of a communist regime close to its borders, leading to events such as the Bay of Pigs invasion in 1961 and the Cuban Missile Crisis in 1962. These events highlighted the US's efforts to combat the influence of communism in Latin America and reinforced its stance on containing communist expansion.