1.
What action did General MacArthur take during the Korean War that immediately led to his discharge?
Correct Answer
C. Attempted to use the press and Congress to go over the president's head
Explanation
General MacArthur's attempt to use the press and Congress to go over the president's head was seen as insubordination and a violation of the principle of civilian control over the military. This action undermined the chain of command and challenged the authority of the president, which ultimately led to his discharge from his position.
2.
What is the practice of trying to achieve an advantageous outcome by pushing dangerous events to the brink of active conflict? This was an effective tactic during the Cold War because neither side wanted to be destroyed by the other in a nuclear war.
Correct Answer
A. Brinkmanship
Explanation
Brinkmanship refers to the practice of trying to achieve an advantageous outcome by pushing dangerous events to the brink of active conflict. During the Cold War, both sides, the United States and the Soviet Union, understood the devastating consequences of a nuclear war. Therefore, they employed brinkmanship as a tactic, escalating tensions and threats to the point where the opposing side would back down to avoid the risk of nuclear destruction. This strategy was effective because it relied on the mutual fear of annihilation, forcing both sides to exercise caution and seek peaceful resolutions.
3.
This is an organization of nations set up after World War II, including both of the superpowers.
Correct Answer
A. United Nations
Explanation
The United Nations is the correct answer because it was indeed an organization of nations established after World War II. It was created with the aim of promoting international cooperation and preventing future conflicts. The United Nations includes both superpowers, referring to the United States and the Soviet Union during the time of the Cold War. The organization serves as a platform for member countries to discuss and address global issues, such as peacekeeping, human rights, and development.
4.
What is the main slogan of Communism?
Correct Answer
B. Workers of the World Unite!!!
Explanation
The main slogan of Communism is "Workers of the World Unite!!!" This slogan encapsulates the core ideology of Communism, which aims to unite the working class across national boundaries and overthrow the capitalist system. It emphasizes the importance of solidarity and collective action among workers in order to achieve social and economic equality.
5.
What countries did the U.S. think should have democratically elected governments?
Correct Answer
A. All of them
Explanation
The U.S. believed that all countries should have democratically elected governments. This suggests that the U.S. advocated for democratic principles and believed in the importance of giving people the right to choose their leaders through fair and free elections.
6.
George Kennan authored this writing which included advice on containment of communism.
Correct Answer
B. The Long Telegram
Explanation
The Long Telegram is the correct answer because it was a famous document written by George Kennan in 1946. In this telegram, Kennan outlined his views on the Soviet Union and provided advice on how to contain the spread of communism. The document had a significant impact on shaping American foreign policy during the Cold War.
7.
What was probably the first proxy war of the Cold War with roots going back into WWII and problems with the German and Italian occupation?
Correct Answer
A. Greek Civil War
Explanation
The Greek Civil War is likely the first proxy war of the Cold War with roots going back into WWII and problems with the German and Italian occupation. During WWII, Greece was occupied by Axis powers, and after the war, a power struggle emerged between communist and non-communist factions. The Soviet Union supported the communist side, while the United States supported the non-communist side. This conflict can be seen as a precursor to the larger proxy wars that characterized the Cold War period.
8.
This term was used by Winston Churchill to represent the division between a mostly democratic Western Europe and a Communist Eastern Europe.
Correct Answer
C. Iron Curtain
Explanation
The term "Iron Curtain" was used by Winston Churchill to describe the ideological and physical separation between Western Europe, which was mostly democratic, and Eastern Europe, which was under Communist control. This division was characterized by strict border controls, censorship, and limited interaction between the two regions. The term became widely recognized as a symbol of the Cold War and the geopolitical tensions between the East and the West.
9.
Who was the President after John F. Kennedy?
Correct Answer
B. Lyndon Johnson
Explanation
After John F. Kennedy, Lyndon Johnson became the President. He assumed office on November 22, 1963, following Kennedy's assassination. Johnson served as the 36th President of the United States until 1969.
10.
This is the name of the policy that aimed to prevent the spread of communism by blocking Soviet influence.
Correct Answer
D. Containment
Explanation
Containment is the correct answer because it refers to the policy that aimed to prevent the spread of communism by blocking Soviet influence. This policy was developed by the United States during the Cold War and involved various strategies such as military alliances, economic aid, and diplomatic efforts to contain the expansion of Soviet power and influence. The goal was to limit communism to the areas where it already existed and prevent it from spreading further. The policy of containment was a central component of US foreign policy during the Cold War era.
11.
In the 1940s and 1950s, what did the region described as being "behind the iron curtain" include?
Correct Answer
B. Soviet Union and its satellite nations (countries controlled by the USSR)
Explanation
During the 1940s and 1950s, the region described as being "behind the iron curtain" included not only the Soviet Union but also its satellite nations. These satellite nations were countries that were under the control and influence of the USSR. This term was used to describe the division between the communist Eastern Bloc, led by the Soviet Union, and the democratic Western Bloc. The iron curtain represented the ideological and physical separation between these two spheres of influence during the Cold War.
12.
This is an alliance between the United States, Canada, and ten Western European nations.
Correct Answer
B. NATO
Explanation
NATO, the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, is an alliance between the United States, Canada, and ten Western European nations. It was established in 1949 as a collective defense organization, aimed at countering the threat of the Soviet Union during the Cold War. NATO's primary purpose is to ensure the security and defense of its member countries through mutual cooperation and collective defense. It serves as a platform for political dialogue, military cooperation, and joint decision-making among its member states.
13.
What was shot down leading to a dispute between the Soviet Union and the United States?
Correct Answer
C. U-2 spy plane
Explanation
The U-2 spy plane was shot down, leading to a dispute between the Soviet Union and the United States. This incident occurred during the Cold War when tensions were high between the two superpowers. The U-2 spy plane was an American reconnaissance aircraft used for gathering intelligence on Soviet activities. Its downing by Soviet forces escalated the already tense relationship between the two countries, as it exposed the extent of American espionage efforts. The incident further strained diplomatic relations and fueled the ongoing ideological conflict between the Soviet Union and the United States.
14.
Who did the Soviets side with in the Greek Civil War?
Correct Answer
D. Communist insurgents
Explanation
During the Greek Civil War, the Soviets sided with the Communist insurgents. This was in line with the Soviet Union's ideology of supporting communist movements and revolutions around the world. The Soviet Union provided military aid, training, and other forms of support to the Greek communist forces in their fight against the Kingdom of Greece, which was backed by the United States and Britain. By supporting the communist insurgents, the Soviets aimed to expand their influence and spread communism in the region.
15.
This was an alliance between the Soviet Union and its Eastern European allies.
Correct Answer
D. Warsaw Pact
Explanation
The Warsaw Pact was an alliance formed in 1955 between the Soviet Union and several Eastern European countries, including Poland, East Germany, Czechoslovakia, Hungary, Romania, Bulgaria, and Albania. It was created as a response to the formation of NATO by Western countries. The Warsaw Pact aimed to provide collective defense and maintain Soviet influence over its satellite states. The alliance dissolved in 1991 with the end of the Cold War and the collapse of the Soviet Union.
16.
This is an economic aid package designed to give European nations the aid needed to rebuild after World War II.
Correct Answer
B. Marshall Plan
Explanation
The Marshall Plan was a comprehensive economic aid package implemented by the United States to assist European countries in rebuilding their economies after World War II. It aimed to provide financial support, technical assistance, and resources to help these nations recover from the devastating effects of the war. The plan was seen as a way to prevent the spread of communism in Europe and promote stability and prosperity in the region.
17.
What is the practice of trying to achieve an advantageous outcome by pushing dangerous events to the brink of active conflict? This was an effective tactic during the Cold War because neither side wanted to be destroyed by the other in a nuclear war.
Correct Answer
A. Brinkmanship
Explanation
Brinkmanship is the practice of trying to achieve an advantageous outcome by pushing dangerous events to the brink of active conflict. This tactic was effective during the Cold War because neither side wanted to be destroyed by the other in a nuclear war. By constantly escalating tensions and threatening to engage in conflict, both sides hoped to secure their own interests without actually going to war.
18.
Name the first satellite to be launched into space by any country.
Correct Answer
A. Sputnik I
Explanation
Sputnik I was the first satellite to be launched into space by any country. It was launched by the Soviet Union on October 4, 1957. This historic event marked the beginning of the Space Age and initiated the space race between the Soviet Union and the United States. Sputnik I was a small, spherical satellite that transmitted radio signals back to Earth, demonstrating the technological capabilities of the Soviet Union and sparking worldwide interest and concern about the advancements in space exploration.
19.
Why was an airlift needed to overcome the Soviet blockade of West Berlin?
Correct Answer
D. Because Berlin was located well within the Iron Curtain
Explanation
An airlift was needed to overcome the Soviet blockade of West Berlin because Berlin was located well within the Iron Curtain. The Iron Curtain was a term used to describe the boundary between Western Europe and the Soviet-controlled Eastern Europe during the Cold War. The Soviet Union had cut off all land and water access to West Berlin, which was located deep within the Soviet-controlled territory. Therefore, the only way to supply essential goods and prevent the isolation of West Berlin was through an airlift operation, where supplies were flown in by planes.
20.
Which country won the biggest prize of the space race by landing humans on the moon and bringing them back alive?
Correct Answer
C. United States of America
Explanation
The United States of America won the biggest prize of the space race by landing humans on the moon and bringing them back alive. This achievement occurred during the Apollo 11 mission in 1969, when astronauts Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin became the first and second humans to walk on the moon. The successful mission was a significant milestone in space exploration and solidified the United States' position as a leader in the field.
21.
The policy of détente was mainly intended to
Correct Answer
D. Reduce Cold War tensions.
Explanation
The policy of détente refers to the easing of tensions between the United States and the Soviet Union during the Cold War. It aimed to reduce hostility and promote cooperation between the two superpowers. This policy involved diplomatic negotiations, arms control agreements, and cultural exchanges. By reducing Cold War tensions, the United States and the Soviet Union hoped to avoid the possibility of a nuclear war and create a more stable international environment.
22.
What was the purpose of the Truman Doctrine?
Correct Answer
D. To support countries that rejected communism
Explanation
The purpose of the Truman Doctrine was to support countries that rejected communism. It was a policy implemented by President Harry S. Truman in 1947, in response to the spread of communism in Europe. The doctrine aimed to provide economic and military aid to countries threatened by communist expansion, such as Greece and Turkey. This support was intended to help these countries resist communist influence and maintain their independence and democratic systems.
23.
What was the name of the alliance established by European Communist nations in response to NATO?
Correct Answer
C. Warsaw Pact
Explanation
The correct answer is Warsaw Pact. The Warsaw Pact was established by the Soviet Union and its Eastern European satellite states in response to the formation of NATO by Western capitalist nations. It was a military alliance aimed at countering the perceived threat from NATO and maintaining Soviet influence in Eastern Europe during the Cold War. The Warsaw Pact was dissolved in 1991 following the collapse of the Soviet Union.
24.
The Hungarian Revolution of 1956 saw this foreign country send in tanks to stop people seeking to destroy communist rule.
Correct Answer
A. Soviet Union
Explanation
During the Hungarian Revolution of 1956, the Soviet Union sent in tanks to suppress the uprising and prevent the destruction of communist rule. The Soviet Union, being a communist country at that time, intervened to maintain control over Hungary and prevent the spread of anti-communist sentiments. This action by the Soviet Union highlights their commitment to protecting and enforcing communist ideologies in Eastern Europe during the Cold War era.
25.
President Nixon’s administration promoted more discussions with the Soviet Union, including regular summit meetings and negotiations over arms control and other agreements. This relaxation of tensions was know as _______.
Correct Answer
A. Détente
Explanation
During President Nixon's administration, there was an increased effort to engage in discussions with the Soviet Union, which included regular summit meetings and negotiations over arms control and other agreements. This period of relaxation and easing of tensions between the two superpowers was known as détente.
26.
The following quote became the main component of what doctrine? When forces that are hostile to socialism try to turn the development of some socialist country towards capitalism, it becomes not only a problem of the country concerned, but a common problem and concern of all socialist countries.
Correct Answer
A. Brezhnev Doctrine
Explanation
The given quote aligns with the Brezhnev Doctrine, which was a policy adopted by the Soviet Union during the Cold War. This doctrine stated that if any socialist country faced threats of capitalist influence or attempted to deviate from socialism, it would be considered a concern for all socialist countries. The quote highlights the idea that the development of a socialist country towards capitalism is not only a problem for that specific country but also a common concern for all socialist nations.
27.
What movement does this passage represent?This was a nonviolent struggle against the authoritarian communist government in Poland. With its roots in trade unionism, this movement challenged the communist regime.
Correct Answer
C. Solidarity
Explanation
The passage represents the movement of Solidarity. Solidarity was a nonviolent struggle against the authoritarian communist government in Poland. It emerged from trade unionism and aimed to challenge the communist regime.
28.
What was the Strategic Defense Initiative?
Correct Answer
A. A system to protect the United States against enemy missiles
Explanation
The Strategic Defense Initiative was a system developed by the United States to protect against enemy missiles. It aimed to create a missile defense shield that could intercept and destroy incoming ballistic missiles before they reached their targets. The initiative was proposed by President Ronald Reagan in 1983 and was intended to provide a defense against potential nuclear attacks. However, the program faced many technical and financial challenges and was ultimately scaled back and deemed ineffective.
29.
Which European countries could receive aid through the Marshall Plan?
Correct Answer
A. Any European country that needed it
Explanation
The Marshall Plan aimed to provide economic aid to any European country that needed it. This was done in order to help rebuild war-torn countries and stimulate economic growth in Europe after World War II. The plan was not limited to specific criteria such as border sharing with iron curtain countries, political opposition to the Soviet Union, or government modeling after U.S. democracy. The primary focus was on providing assistance to countries that required economic support.
30.
The Strategic Defense Initiative (SDI) program was backed by
Correct Answer
B. Ronald Reagan.
Explanation
The Strategic Defense Initiative (SDI) program, also known as "Star Wars," was a proposed missile defense system by the United States during the Cold War. It aimed to protect the country from potential nuclear attacks. Ronald Reagan, who served as the 40th President of the United States from 1981 to 1989, strongly supported and advocated for the SDI program. His administration invested significant resources into research and development for this defense system, although it was never fully implemented.
31.
What did the U.S.A. and Britain do when the Soviets blockaded West Berlin?
Correct Answer
B. They organized the Berlin Airlift to bring in supplies.
Explanation
During the Soviet blockade of West Berlin, the U.S.A. and Britain organized the Berlin Airlift to bring in supplies. This involved flying in food, fuel, and other essential items to the people of West Berlin, who were cut off from the rest of the world by the Soviet blockade. The Berlin Airlift was a massive logistical operation that lasted for over a year and successfully provided the necessary supplies to sustain the people of West Berlin. It was a significant display of Western determination and solidarity in the face of Soviet aggression.
32.
In the summer of 1968, forces from Warsaw Pact nations invaded ______ to stop freedom and democracy that the people of this country wanted.
Correct Answer
C. Czechoslovakia.
Explanation
In the summer of 1968, forces from Warsaw Pact nations invaded Czechoslovakia to stop freedom and democracy that the people of this country wanted. This event is known as the Prague Spring, a period of political liberalization and reform in Czechoslovakia. The invasion was led by the Soviet Union and its allies, who were concerned about the growing influence of democratic ideas in the country. The invasion crushed the hopes of the Czechoslovak people for greater political freedom and marked a significant setback for the democratic movement in Eastern Europe.
33.
What does the following passage refer to? The 1980 United States Olympic Hockey Team will forever remain etched in our memories as one of the greatest sporting events of all-time. In fact, Sports Illustrated selected the team's victory over the Soviet Union en route to winning the gold medal as the No. 1 sports moment of the 20th century. It was a magical ride that happened amidst the backdrop of the Iranian hostage crisis and Soviet invasion of Afghanistan.
Correct Answer
A. The Miracle on Ice
Explanation
The passage refers to the 1980 United States Olympic Hockey Team and their victory over the Soviet Union, which is commonly known as the "Miracle on Ice." The passage highlights the significance of this event and its recognition as one of the greatest sporting events of all time. It also mentions the context in which this event took place, including the Iranian hostage crisis and Soviet invasion of Afghanistan.
34.
What event increased U.S. spending on education and technology?
Correct Answer
D. Soviet launching of a space satellite
Explanation
The correct answer is Soviet launching of a space satellite. The Soviet Union's successful launch of the first artificial satellite, Sputnik, in 1957 created a sense of urgency and competition in the United States. This event led to increased spending on education and technology as the U.S. government recognized the need to catch up and surpass the Soviet Union in the space race. The launch of Sputnik sparked a renewed focus on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education in the United States.
35.
Which of the following worked together to produce similar goals?
Correct Answer
A. Truman Doctrine and containment
Explanation
The Truman Doctrine and containment worked together to produce similar goals. The Truman Doctrine was a policy aimed at containing the spread of communism, while containment was the strategy used to implement this policy. Both initiatives were part of the United States' response to the perceived threat of Soviet expansionism during the Cold War. The Truman Doctrine provided economic and military aid to countries threatened by communism, while containment sought to prevent the spread of communism by using diplomatic, economic, and military means. Together, these policies aimed to limit Soviet influence and protect democratic nations from communist aggression.
36.
What statement did Joseph Stalin make shortly after President Truman's succession?
Correct Answer
A. He said that communism and capitalism could not exist in the same world.
Explanation
Joseph Stalin made the statement that communism and capitalism could not exist in the same world shortly after President Truman's succession. This statement reflects Stalin's belief in the inherent conflict between these two economic and political systems. He believed that the spread of communism would eventually lead to the downfall of capitalism, and vice versa. This ideological clash between the Soviet Union and the United States became a central theme in the Cold War.
37.
Which two groups fought a civil war in China both before and after World War II?
Correct Answer
A. The nationalists and the Communists
Explanation
During and after World War II, China experienced a civil war between the nationalists, led by Chiang Kai-shek, and the Communists, led by Mao Zedong. This conflict began before World War II and continued afterwards, eventually resulting in the victory of the Communists and the establishment of the People's Republic of China in 1949. The nationalists and the Communists were the two main groups involved in this civil war, making them the correct answer.
38.
Which leader won China's civil war, and what name did he give to the country?
Correct Answer
A. Mao Zedong; People's Republic of China
Explanation
Mao Zedong won China's civil war and he named the country the People's Republic of China. This answer is correct because Mao Zedong was the leader of the Communist Party of China and under his leadership, the Communist forces emerged victorious in the Chinese Civil War against the Nationalist forces led by Jiang Jieshi. After their victory, Mao Zedong declared the establishment of the People's Republic of China on October 1, 1949.
39.
What economic system was used to reshape China's economy after the civil war?
Correct Answer
B. Communism
Explanation
After the civil war, China adopted communism as its economic system. This means that the government controls and owns the means of production, distribution, and exchange. Under communism, resources are allocated based on the needs of the society rather than through market forces. This allowed the Chinese government to reshape the economy according to their socialist principles, with the goal of achieving equality and eliminating class distinctions.
40.
Who were most of the Vietcong?
Correct Answer
A. Pro-Communist South Vietnamese
Explanation
The Vietcong were primarily composed of pro-Communist South Vietnamese individuals. They were a guerrilla force that fought against the South Vietnamese government and its allies, including the United States, during the Vietnam War. The Vietcong aimed to reunify Vietnam under Communist rule and received support from North Vietnam. Their tactics included ambushes, hit-and-run attacks, and underground tunnels. The Vietcong were a significant force in the conflict and played a crucial role in the eventual victory of North Vietnam.
41.
In 1979, the Soviet Union invaded
Correct Answer
C. Afghanistan.
Explanation
In 1979, the Soviet Union invaded Afghanistan. This invasion was a result of the Soviet Union's desire to maintain control over its neighboring countries and expand its influence in the region. The invasion was met with significant resistance from Afghan rebel groups, known as the Mujahideen, who received support from various countries, including the United States. The conflict lasted for nearly a decade and had far-reaching consequences, including the rise of extremist groups and the eventual withdrawal of Soviet forces from Afghanistan.
42.
What was the primary goal for the Soviet Union's invasion of Afghanistan?
Correct Answer
C. To reestablish the Communist regime in Afghanistan
Explanation
The primary goal for the Soviet Union's invasion of Afghanistan was to reestablish the Communist regime in Afghanistan.
43.
The first American president to visit Communist China was
Correct Answer
C. Richard Nixon.
Explanation
Richard Nixon was the first American president to visit Communist China. In 1972, Nixon made a historic trip to China, which marked a significant shift in U.S.-China relations. This visit was a part of Nixon's strategy to improve relations with China and ease tensions during the Cold War. The visit was seen as a major diplomatic breakthrough and paved the way for future diplomatic and economic cooperation between the two countries.
44.
In what way did the existence of two Chinas intensify the Cold War between the United States and the Soviet Union?
Correct Answer
D. All of the above are true.
Explanation
The existence of two Chinas intensified the Cold War between the United States and the Soviet Union because the People's Republic of China and the Soviet Union formed an alliance and pledged to defend each other. Additionally, both the United States and the Soviet Union fought to expand their spheres of influence in Asia, leading to the division of Korea. Furthermore, the United States actively supported the Republic of China, while the Soviets supported the People's Republic of China. These factors contributed to the escalation of tensions and rivalry between the two superpowers during the Cold War.
45.
What does this passage refer to?This popular national movement was inspired by democracy protests in Beijing. The protests were forcibly suppressed by the authoritarian communist government. The most memorable scene is when a young man stood in front of a column of tanks. As many as 10,000 protesters were killed.
Correct Answer
B. Tienanmen Square protests of 1989
Explanation
The passage refers to the Tienanmen Square protests of 1989, which were inspired by democracy protests in Beijing. The protests were forcefully suppressed by the authoritarian communist government, and one of the most memorable scenes was when a young man stood in front of a column of tanks. The passage also mentions that as many as 10,000 protesters were killed, which further supports the answer choice.
46.
Who was the leader of Communist North Vietnam?
Correct Answer
C. Ho Chi Minh
Explanation
Ho Chi Minh was the leader of Communist North Vietnam. He played a significant role in the Vietnamese independence movement and was the founder and leader of the Viet Minh, a communist organization that fought against French colonial rule. He later became the President of North Vietnam and led the country during the Vietnam War against the United States. Ho Chi Minh is widely regarded as a national hero in Vietnam for his leadership and efforts towards independence and unification.
47.
Which country did the Soviet Union support during the Korean War?
Correct Answer
A. North Korea
Explanation
During the Korean War, the Soviet Union supported North Korea. The Soviet Union provided military aid, including weapons, equipment, and training, to North Korea in their fight against South Korea and its allies. This support was part of the Soviet Union's larger strategy to spread communism and expand its influence in the region. The Soviet Union's backing of North Korea played a significant role in the conflict and contributed to the division of Korea into North and South.
48.
What idea was the major justification for U.S. foreign policy during the Cold War era especially in Asia?
Correct Answer
B. Domino theory
Explanation
The domino theory was a major justification for U.S. foreign policy during the Cold War era, especially in Asia. It suggested that if one country in the region fell to communism, neighboring countries would also fall like a row of dominoes. This theory influenced U.S. involvement in the Vietnam War, as the U.S. aimed to prevent the spread of communism in Southeast Asia. The fear of communism spreading and the need to contain it were central to U.S. foreign policy during this time.
49.
Which country did the USA support during the Korean War?
Correct Answer
B. South Korea
Explanation
During the Korean War, the USA supported South Korea. This is because North Korea, backed by the Soviet Union and China, invaded South Korea in an attempt to reunify the country under communist rule. The USA, along with a United Nations coalition, came to the aid of South Korea to defend its democratic government and prevent the spread of communism in the region. The war ended in a stalemate, with the border between North and South Korea remaining largely unchanged.
50.
Approximately where was the border set between North Korea and South Korea at the time of the cease-fire in the Korean War?
Correct Answer
B. 38th parallel
Explanation
The correct answer is the 38th parallel. The border between North Korea and South Korea was set along the 38th parallel at the time of the cease-fire in the Korean War. This line of latitude was chosen as a temporary division between the two countries, with the intention of eventually reunifying Korea. However, the division has remained in place to this day, with the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) serving as a buffer between the two nations.