Post WWII And The Cold War
This is a quiz that covers life after WWII in Europe and America
Questions and Answers
- 1.
The "Baby Boom" refers to the rise in ____________ after World War II.
- A.
Taxes
- B.
Death rates of babies
- C.
Childhood diseases
- D.
Birth rates and family growth
Correct Answer
D. Birth rates and family growthExplanation
The "Baby Boom" refers to the rise in birth rates and family growth after World War II. This period saw a significant increase in the number of babies being born, as soldiers returned home and started families. The economic stability and optimism of the post-war era also contributed to this phenomenon, as couples felt more confident about starting or expanding their families. The Baby Boom had a profound impact on society, shaping demographics, education, and the economy for decades to come.Rate this question:
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- 2.
ALL of the following were reasons for the post World War II economic boom EXCEPT
- A.
Increased production of consumer goods
- B.
A rapid growth in technology
- C.
Inflation and higher prices
- D.
Purchases made on credit
Correct Answer
C. Inflation and higher pricesExplanation
The post-World War II economic boom was characterized by increased production of consumer goods, rapid growth in technology, and purchases made on credit. These factors contributed to a surge in economic activity and prosperity. However, inflation and higher prices are not typically considered reasons for an economic boom. In fact, inflation and higher prices can often hinder economic growth by reducing purchasing power and increasing costs for businesses and consumers. Therefore, inflation and higher prices were not reasons for the post-World War II economic boom.Rate this question:
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- 3.
A state of tension between the U.S. and the Soviet Union without actual fighting was called the
- A.
World War
- B.
Cold War
- C.
Vietnam War
- D.
European War
Correct Answer
B. Cold WarExplanation
The correct answer is Cold War because it accurately describes the state of tension between the U.S. and the Soviet Union during the second half of the 20th century. The term "Cold War" reflects the absence of direct military conflict between the two superpowers, but instead refers to the intense political, economic, and ideological rivalry that existed. This period was characterized by nuclear arms race, proxy wars, and competition for global influence, with both sides engaging in espionage and propaganda campaigns. The term "Cold War" has become widely recognized and accepted to describe this specific historical period.Rate this question:
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- 4.
The United States provided massive financial aid to rebuild European economies and prevent the spread of communism under the
- A.
Marshall Plan
- B.
United Nations
- C.
Truman Doctrine
- D.
Eisenhower Doctrine
Correct Answer
A. Marshall PlanExplanation
The United States provided massive financial aid to rebuild European economies and prevent the spread of communism under the Marshall Plan. This plan, named after Secretary of State George Marshall, was implemented in 1948 and aimed to provide economic assistance to war-torn European countries. The aid was intended to stabilize these nations and prevent the economic conditions that could lead to the rise of communism. By providing financial support, the United States hoped to promote stability and democracy in Europe, as well as strengthen its own political and economic influence in the region.Rate this question:
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- 5.
After World War II, Germany was divided and occupied by
- A.
The Allied Powers
- B.
The Axis Powers
- C.
The Central Powers
- D.
The Soviet Union
Correct Answer
A. The Allied PowersExplanation
After World War II, Germany was divided and occupied by the Allied Powers. This division was part of the Potsdam Conference agreements, where Germany was split into four zones of occupation, each controlled by a different Allied power - the United States, the Soviet Union, Great Britain, and France. The Allied Powers aimed to demilitarize and rebuild Germany after the war, and their occupation lasted until the reunification of East and West Germany in 1990.Rate this question:
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- 6.
The organization set up in 1945 to help solve conflicts between nations was the
- A.
Warsaw Pact
- B.
United Nations
- C.
Marshall Plan
- D.
National Alliance of Nations
Correct Answer
B. United NationsExplanation
The United Nations was established in 1945 to facilitate international cooperation and prevent conflicts between nations. It serves as a platform for member countries to discuss and address global issues, promote human rights, and provide humanitarian assistance. The organization's main goals include maintaining peace and security, promoting sustainable development, and fostering social progress. The United Nations has played a crucial role in resolving conflicts, providing aid to countries in need, and coordinating international efforts to tackle global challenges such as climate change and poverty.Rate this question:
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- 7.
Which of the following was NOT a cause of the Cold War?
- A.
The Soviet Union dominates Eastern Europe
- B.
Differences in goals and ideologies of the U.S. and the Soviet Union
- C.
The U.S. policy of containment
- D.
The Korean and Vietnam Wars
Correct Answer
D. The Korean and Vietnam WarsExplanation
The Korean and Vietnam Wars were not a cause of the Cold War because they were actually conflicts that occurred during the Cold War. The Cold War was a period of political tension and rivalry between the United States and the Soviet Union, characterized by ideological differences and a race for global influence. The Korean and Vietnam Wars were proxy wars fought between the two superpowers and their respective allies, but they were not the root cause of the Cold War itself.Rate this question:
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- 8.
The 1962 confrontation between the U.S. and the Soviet Union that almost escalated into a third world war was called the
- A.
Korean War
- B.
Vietnam War
- C.
Berlin Conflict
- D.
Cuban Missile Crisis
Correct Answer
D. Cuban Missile CrisisExplanation
The correct answer is Cuban Missile Crisis. The Cuban Missile Crisis refers to the 1962 confrontation between the United States and the Soviet Union over the placement of Soviet nuclear missiles in Cuba. The crisis was sparked when the U.S. discovered the presence of these missiles, which posed a direct threat to American cities. Tensions escalated rapidly, with both sides preparing for a potential nuclear war. However, through intense negotiations and a series of diplomatic exchanges, the crisis was eventually resolved, with the Soviet Union agreeing to remove the missiles in exchange for a U.S. promise not to invade Cuba.Rate this question:
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- 9.
The war that created divisiveness among Americans throughout the 1960s was the
- A.
Korean War
- B.
Vietnam War
- C.
Cold War
- D.
World War II
Correct Answer
B. Vietnam WarExplanation
The Vietnam War is the correct answer because it was a highly controversial and divisive conflict that deeply divided American society during the 1960s. The war sparked widespread protests and demonstrations, with many Americans opposing U.S. involvement and criticizing the government's policies. The war became a symbol of the generational divide, with younger Americans questioning the motivations and justifications for the war, while older generations supported it. The Vietnam War had a profound impact on American politics, culture, and society, leading to widespread social unrest and political polarization.Rate this question:
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- 10.
The Cold War spanned which time period?
- A.
1939-1945
- B.
1945-1991
- C.
1950-1953
- D.
1957-1975
Correct Answer
B. 1945-1991Explanation
The correct answer is 1945-1991. The Cold War was a period of political tension and military rivalry between the United States and the Soviet Union after World War II. It began in 1945 with the end of World War II and the division of Europe into Western and Eastern blocs. The conflict lasted until 1991 when the Soviet Union dissolved, marking the end of the Cold War. During this time, there were numerous proxy wars, arms races, and ideological conflicts between the two superpowers.Rate this question:
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- 11.
One of the origins of the Cold War was the Soviet Union domination over-
- A.
West and East Germany
- B.
Western European countries
- C.
Asian and African countries
- D.
Eastern European countries
Correct Answer
D. Eastern European countriesExplanation
During the Cold War, the Soviet Union exerted control over Eastern European countries through the establishment of communist governments and the creation of the Warsaw Pact. This domination was a major factor in the tensions between the Soviet Union and the Western powers, as it threatened the security and influence of the United States and its allies in Europe. The Soviet Union's control over Eastern Europe also led to conflicts such as the Berlin Wall and the Hungarian Revolution, further exacerbating the divide between the East and the West.Rate this question:
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- 12.
What was the first country to be divided into two separate countries during the Cold War era?
- A.
Germany
- B.
Vietnam
- C.
Korea
- D.
Japan
Correct Answer
A. GermanyExplanation
During the Cold War era, Germany was divided into two separate countries: West Germany and East Germany. This division occurred after World War II when the victorious Allied powers, including the United States, Soviet Union, United Kingdom, and France, divided Germany into occupation zones. The ideological differences between the capitalist West and communist East led to the establishment of two separate countries. West Germany became a democratic and capitalist state, while East Germany became a socialist state under Soviet influence. This division lasted until the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989 and the subsequent reunification of Germany in 1990.Rate this question:
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- 13.
During and after the Korean War, and still today, Korea remains divided at the
- A.
34th Parallel
- B.
38th Parallel
- C.
50th Parallel
- D.
51st Parallel
Correct Answer
B. 38th ParallelExplanation
After the Korean War, a ceasefire agreement was signed, resulting in the division of Korea along the 38th Parallel. This parallel became the demarcation line between North Korea and South Korea, with the North being under communist rule and the South being a democratic nation. This division still exists today, making the 38th Parallel the correct answer.Rate this question:
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- 14.
NATO and Warsaw Pact alliances were formed primariliy to
- A.
Oppose or promote communism
- B.
Encourage another world war
- C.
Create more tension between the superpowers
- D.
Support democracy
Correct Answer
A. Oppose or promote communismExplanation
The correct answer is "oppose or promote communism." The NATO and Warsaw Pact alliances were formed during the Cold War as a response to the ideological divide between the Western capitalist countries and the Eastern communist countries. NATO was created to oppose the spread of communism and provide collective defense against the Soviet Union and its allies. On the other hand, the Warsaw Pact was formed by the Soviet Union and its satellite states to promote communism and counter the influence of NATO. These alliances were instrumental in shaping the geopolitical landscape of the Cold War era.Rate this question:
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- 15.
The 1962, President John F. Kennedy ordered a blockade of Cuba because of the presence--
- A.
Illegal drugs
- B.
Contagious diseases
- C.
The Viet Cong
- D.
Soviet nuclear missiles
Correct Answer
D. Soviet nuclear missilesExplanation
In 1962, President John F. Kennedy ordered a blockade of Cuba due to the presence of Soviet nuclear missiles. This action was taken in response to the discovery of Soviet missile sites in Cuba, which posed a significant threat to the United States. The presence of these missiles heightened tensions between the United States and the Soviet Union during the Cold War, and the blockade was implemented as a means to prevent further escalation of the crisis.Rate this question:
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- 16.
All of the following were similarities between the US and the Soviet Union during the Cold War except--
- A.
Both had political and economic ideologies
- B.
Both were competing in the arms and space race
- C.
Both promoted capitalism
- D.
Both formed military alliances
Correct Answer
C. Both promoted capitalismExplanation
During the Cold War, the United States and the Soviet Union had several similarities. They both had political and economic ideologies, as they were driven by different ideologies - capitalism in the US and communism in the Soviet Union. Both countries were also engaged in a fierce competition in the arms and space race, striving to outdo each other in technological advancements. Additionally, both formed military alliances to strengthen their influence and counter the other's power. However, the Soviet Union did not promote capitalism, as it was a communist state with a planned economy.Rate this question:
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- 17.
What foreign policy did the US institute to stop the spread of communism?
- A.
Neutrality
- B.
Isolationsim
- C.
Containment
- D.
Capitalism
Correct Answer
C. ContainmentExplanation
The US instituted the policy of containment to stop the spread of communism. This policy involved preventing the expansion of communism by using various strategies such as military intervention, alliances, and economic aid to support countries threatened by communism. The aim was to contain the influence and spread of communism, particularly in countries where it was already present or gaining traction. This policy was a response to the perceived threat of communism during the Cold War and was a central pillar of US foreign policy during that time.Rate this question:
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- 18.
Which dictatorial leader was head of the Soviet Union when the Cold War began?
- A.
Adolf Hitler
- B.
Fidel Castro
- C.
Hideki Tojo
- D.
Joseph Stalin
Correct Answer
D. JosepH StalinExplanation
Joseph Stalin was the head of the Soviet Union when the Cold War began. He became the leader of the Soviet Union in 1924 and remained in power until his death in 1953. Stalin's policies, such as the collectivization of agriculture and the rapid industrialization of the country, contributed to the tensions between the Soviet Union and the Western powers, which eventually led to the Cold War. His authoritarian rule and aggressive expansionist policies also played a significant role in shaping the geopolitical landscape of the post-World War II era.Rate this question:
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- 19.
NATO is the abbreviation for--
- A.
National Alliance Treaty Organization
- B.
North Atlantic Tactical Offensive
- C.
North Atlantic Treaty Organization
- D.
National Arts Theater Organization
Correct Answer
C. North Atlantic Treaty OrganizationExplanation
NATO stands for North Atlantic Treaty Organization. It is an intergovernmental military alliance formed by North American and European countries. The purpose of NATO is to promote cooperation and collective defense among its member states. The other options provided in the question are incorrect and do not correspond to the actual meaning of NATO.Rate this question:
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- 20.
The political and economic ideologies of the US are democratic and--
- A.
Communist
- B.
Capitalist
- C.
Dictatorial
- D.
Socialist
Correct Answer
B. CapitalistExplanation
The correct answer is capitalist because the political and economic ideologies of the US are based on a capitalist system. Capitalism is an economic system where the means of production and distribution are privately owned and operated for profit. In a capitalist system, individuals and businesses have the freedom to own property, make economic decisions, and engage in trade and commerce. The US is known for its emphasis on free-market principles, private enterprise, and individual economic freedom, which align with the capitalist ideology.Rate this question:
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- 21.
After WWII, Germany was partitioned into--
- A.
Democratic East Germany and communist West Germany
- B.
Communist East Germany and democratic West Germany
- C.
Both democratic and East and West Germany
- D.
Both communist East and West Germany
Correct Answer
B. Communist East Germany and democratic West GermanyExplanation
After WWII, Germany was divided into two separate countries: East Germany and West Germany. East Germany was under communist rule, while West Germany adopted a democratic system. This division was a result of the Cold War and the differing ideologies of the Soviet Union and the Western Allies.Rate this question:
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- 22.
The following statements above best describe which country after WWII?>Occupied by American military forces>Adopted a democratic form of government>Became a strong ally of the U.S.
- A.
Germany
- B.
Korea
- C.
China
- D.
Japan
Correct Answer
D. JapanExplanation
After World War II, Japan was occupied by American military forces, which led to significant changes in the country. As part of their occupation, the United States helped Japan establish a democratic form of government, which replaced the previous imperial system. Additionally, Japan became a strong ally of the U.S., forming a close relationship that continues to this day. Therefore, the statements "Occupied by American military forces," "Adopted a democratic form of government," and "Became a strong ally of the U.S." best describe Japan after WWII.Rate this question:
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- 23.
In the Korean War, South Korea and the U.S. resisted aggression from--
- A.
North Korea and the USSR
- B.
China and the USSR
- C.
North Korea and China
- D.
North Vietnam and China
Correct Answer
A. North Korea and the USSRExplanation
During the Korean War, South Korea and the U.S. faced aggression from North Korea and the USSR. North Korea, under the leadership of Kim Il-sung, launched a surprise attack on South Korea in an attempt to reunify the country under communist rule. The USSR, as a supporter of North Korea, provided military assistance, including weapons and supplies, to aid in their aggression against South Korea. The U.S. and South Korea formed an alliance to resist this aggression and defend the democratic values of South Korea.Rate this question:
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- 24.
All of the following are true about the "Baby Boom" except--
- A.
It affected the demographics of the U.S. society
- B.
It refers to the large number of babies born from 1945-1962
- C.
It was a result of men returning home after WWII
- D.
It was the nickname for one of the atomic bombs dropped on Japan
Correct Answer
D. It was the nickname for one of the atomic bombs dropped on JapanExplanation
The correct answer is "It was the nickname for one of the atomic bombs dropped on Japan." This statement is false because the term "Baby Boom" refers to the significant increase in births that occurred in the United States between 1945 and 1962, following the return of soldiers from World War II. It had a profound impact on the demographics of American society, but it is unrelated to the atomic bombs dropped on Japan during the war.Rate this question:
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- 25.
WWII veterans received educational, housing, and employment benefits through which of the following?
- A.
Marshall Plan
- B.
Civil Rights Act
- C.
GI Bill of Rights
- D.
Truman Doctrine
Correct Answer
C. GI Bill of RightsExplanation
WWII veterans received educational, housing, and employment benefits through the GI Bill of Rights. This legislation, officially known as the Servicemen's Readjustment Act of 1944, provided financial support for veterans to attend college or vocational schools, access to low-interest loans for purchasing homes or starting businesses, and unemployment benefits. The GI Bill played a significant role in helping millions of veterans reintegrate into civilian life after the war and contributed to the economic growth and development of the United States in the post-war period.Rate this question:
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- 26.
After WWII, President Truman ___________ the armed forces.
- A.
Segregated
- B.
Decreased
- C.
Restricted
- D.
Desegregated
Correct Answer
D. DesegregatedExplanation
After World War II, President Truman implemented a policy of desegregation in the armed forces. This means that he ended the practice of racial segregation, which had previously separated African American soldiers from their white counterparts. This decision was a significant step towards promoting equality and civil rights within the military, and it helped pave the way for further desegregation efforts in the United States.Rate this question:
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- 27.
The make-up of US immigrants to the US changed after 1965 with the increase of
- A.
Asian and Hispanic Americans
- B.
African and Asian Americans
- C.
Hispanic and Italian Americans
- D.
Asian and European Americans
Correct Answer
A. Asian and Hispanic AmericansExplanation
After 1965, the composition of US immigrants shifted, with an increase in Asian and Hispanic Americans. This change can be attributed to the Immigration and Nationality Act of 1965, which abolished the national origins quota system and introduced a preference system based on family reunification and skills. As a result, Asian and Hispanic immigrants were able to enter the US in larger numbers, leading to a significant demographic shift in the immigrant population.Rate this question:
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- 28.
What would be the best title for the above list?-Business changes from war materials to consumer goods-Men returning to the workforce-Labor unions merge-Workers gain more rights and higher wages-Technology grows
- A.
The rise of big business
- B.
The American economy during the Great Depression
- C.
The struggle between labor unions and business
- D.
The expanding American economy after WWII, leading to prosperity
Correct Answer
D. The expanding American economy after WWII, leading to prosperityExplanation
The given list of potential titles suggests different topics related to the American economy. However, the best title would be "The expanding American economy after WWII, leading to prosperity" because it accurately summarizes the main theme of the list, which is the growth and success of the American economy following World War II. This title encompasses the idea of economic expansion, which is supported by the mention of business changes, men returning to the workforce, labor unions merging, workers gaining more rights and higher wages, and technology growing.Rate this question:
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- 29.
Sarah works all day at Woolworth's, and when she comes home she has to do the laundry, cook dinner, and clean the house. It is 1950. What is Sarah an example of?
- A.
Slavery
- B.
The Baby Boom
- C.
The Civil Rights Movement
- D.
The evolving role of women
Correct Answer
D. The evolving role of womenExplanation
Sarah's situation of working all day at Woolworth's and then coming home to do household chores reflects the evolving role of women. In the 1950s, women were expected to fulfill traditional gender roles as homemakers while also participating in the workforce. This period marked a shift in societal expectations for women, as they began to take on more responsibilities outside of the home. Sarah's busy schedule exemplifies the changing dynamics and increasing demands placed on women during this time.Rate this question:
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- 30.
This led to increased educational, economic and political opportunities for women and minorities.
- A.
Evolving role of women
- B.
Civil rights legislation
- C.
The 19th amendment
- D.
The GI Bill
Correct Answer
B. Civil rights legislationExplanation
Civil rights legislation refers to laws and policies that were enacted to protect the rights of individuals, particularly those belonging to marginalized groups, such as women and minorities. These laws aimed to eliminate discrimination and ensure equal opportunities in various aspects of life, including education, employment, and political participation. By passing civil rights legislation, the government acknowledged the need for equality and provided a legal framework to address systemic barriers faced by women and minorities. This legislation played a crucial role in opening up educational, economic, and political opportunities for these groups, leading to their increased empowerment and social progress.Rate this question:
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Jan 11, 2023Quiz Edited by
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Mar 27, 2009Quiz Created by
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