US Cold War Policy
Henry Kissinger
- Impact on Cold War Policy: Henry Kissinger served as National Security Adviser and later as Secretary of State under President Nixon. He played a crucial role in shaping U.S. foreign policy during the Cold War, particularly in relation to the policy of détente, the opening to China, and efforts to engage the Soviet Union. He emphasized realpolitik and pragmatic approaches to international relations, moving away from ideological confrontations towards more strategic negotiations.
Nixon Doctrine
- Impact on Cold War Policy: Announced in 1969, the Nixon Doctrine stated that the United States would assist its allies in defense but would expect them to take on more responsibility for their own military needs. This marked a shift in U.S. policy towards seeking to reduce direct military involvement and support local governments, especially in Vietnam, while still aiming to contain communism. This doctrine reflected an understanding that U.S. resources were limited and that allies needed to be fortified.
Detente
- Impact on Cold War Policy: Detente refers to the relaxation of tensions between the U.S. and the Soviet Union during the 1970s. This period saw significant arms control agreements, such as the Strategic Arms Limitation Talks (SALT), and increased diplomatic engagement. The approach symbolized a departure from the confrontational stance of previous years, focusing instead on coexistence and managing competition in a more stable manner.
Camp David Accords Turn & Talk
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Who was fighting in the Middle East?
- The main parties involved were Israel and its Arab neighbors, particularly Egypt, which had been in conflict over territorial disputes and the recognition of Israel.
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What did Egypt get?
- Egypt received the return of the Sinai Peninsula, which had been occupied by Israel since the 1967 Six-Day War, along with economic aid from the United States.
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What did Israel get?
- Israel gained formal recognition from Egypt and security guarantees. The accords also established a framework for future peace negotiations with other Arab states.
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What did Egypt recognize?
- Egypt recognized the state of Israel, becoming the first Arab country to do so, which was a significant shift in the Arab-Israeli conflict.
Iran Hostage Crisis Turn & Talk
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Why was the Shah of Iran unpopular in Iran?
- The Shah, Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, was unpopular due to his authoritarian rule, widespread corruption, human rights abuses, and the alienation of various social groups, including religious leaders and political dissidents. His Westernization policies and close ties with the U.S. also fueled resentment.
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What type of government did the Ayatollah Khomeini establish after taking over Iran?
- After the Iranian Revolution, Ayatollah Khomeini established an Islamic Republic based on Shia Islamic principles, which integrated religious authority with political governance.
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What happened to President Carter's Operation Eagle Claw?
- Operation Eagle Claw was a failed rescue mission intended to free the American hostages held in the U.S. Embassy in Tehran. The operation was hindered by mechanical failures and poor planning, resulting in the deaths of eight American servicemen and the mission's ultimate failure.
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When were the Hostages freed?
- The hostages were freed on January 20, 1981, the day President Ronald Reagan was inaugurated, after 444 days of captivity.