-
V-E Day
This important event in history marks the end of World War II in Europe. It's also referred to as "Victory in Europe" day. The result of this day left two major powers standing; the U.S and the Soviet Union. This sparked the beginning of the Cold War and caused confrontation to begin. -
Hydrogen Bombs
Science / Technology:
In 1949, president Harry Truman ordered the creation of the hydrogen bomb project. These bombs were expected to be even greater and more devastating then atomic bombs. By 1953 both the U.S and Soviet Union created hydrogen bombs. The creation of these bombs actually discouraged nuclear war because each nation was in fear of the other. This created a balance of power and kept the war "cold". -
The European Community
Economic action / Policy:
In 1957, several European nations united to form the European community. The purpose of this community was to promote free trade among member nations for all products.This greatly strengthened the European economy and allowed them to thrive financially during the Cold War. -
A Wall divides Berlin
Political Action / Policy:
A major focus of the Cold War was the city of Berlin. The city was split between democratic West Berlin and communist East Berlin. West Berlin was prosperous and didn't practice communism. Citizens of East Berlin who were poor and tired of communism started to flee into West Berlin. To prevent citizens from leaving, East Berlin took political action and built the Berlin wall to cut off West Berlin.This was a big part of tension in the Cold War. -
The Cuban Missile Crisis
Militaristic action / Policy:
In 1962, the Soviet Union sent nuclear missiles to Cuba. This was intended to have an upper hand on the U.S and gain control. President Kennedy imposed a naval blockade that stopped Soviet shipments as a result. For a few days the world was preparing for a nuclear war over the problem. However, the Soviet Premier eventually removed the missiles and the war was avoided. This is another example of why it's called the "Cold" war. Tension builds up but war never erupts. -
The Cultural Revolution
Cultural:
In 1966, Chinese leader Mao Zedong launched a cultural revolution. The goal of this was to rid China of "bourgeois" tendencies. Young generations of Chinese were pressured to to experience the revolution firsthand. Those who disagreed or were suspected of being bourgeois were beaten, humiliated, and sometimes killed. -
The Berlin Wall is Toppled
On November 9th 1989, the Berlin wall was officially reopened. As the Cold War was coming to an end across Europe, the leader of East Berlin declared that the wall would be torn down. East Berlin citizens and West Berlin citizens reunited and celebrated the end of the war. Many drank alcohol and brought hammers to help tare down the wall.
