explain if these events increased tension, decreased tension, or if the tension stayed the same. Also, explain why. After this, order them in terms of most tension-least tension

Question

1. The usa drops the first atomic bombs on hiroshima and nagasaki . this was done without the knowledhge of the ussr

2. USSR detenoates atom bomb. USA cincerend - did not think they would have the technology till 1953. usa suspects soviet spuies.

3. the usa detonates the first hydrogen bomb a 1000x more powerful than an atomic bomb. this followed in 1954 by the USSRs development of the H bomb.

4. USSR develops first ICBM. usa is shocked by advances, they can now launch nuclear missiles at us cities from a great distanc.

5. the ussr test the tsar bomb and biggest explosion ever on earth. this is 1000s of times more powerful than other nuclear missiles.

6. following the cuban missiles crisis, the usa and uusr sign the Nuclear test ban theory. this prevents the tesing of any new neuclar weapons

Answer 1

Let's analyze each of these events to understand their impact on tensions between the USA and the USSR during the Cold War.

1. The USA drops the first atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki without the knowledge of the USSR.

   • Impact: Increased Tension
   • Explanation: This event marked the first use of nuclear weapons, and the secretive manner of the operation contributed to suspicions and fears for the USSR. The USA demonstrated a significant military advantage that the USSR was not aware of, increasing anxiety and antagonism between the two powers.

2. USSR detonates atom bomb; USA concerned - did not think they would have the technology until 1953. USA suspects Soviet spies.

   • Impact: Increased Tension
   • Explanation: The successful test of the Soviet nuclear bomb demonstrated that the arms race was not one-sided and that the USSR could retaliate with devastating force. This created a sense of urgency and paranoia in the USA regarding espionage, escalating already high tensions.

3. The USA detonates the first hydrogen bomb (1,000 times more powerful than an atomic bomb) followed in 1954 by the USSR's development of the H-bomb.

   • Impact: Increased Tension
   • Explanation: The development of hydrogen bombs by both superpowers represented an escalation in the arms race, with each side capable of far more catastrophic destruction. This led to heightened fears of total war and underlined the importance of deterrence, thus increasing tensions further.

4. USSR develops the first ICBM; USA is shocked by advances, they can now launch nuclear missiles at US cities from a great distance.

   • Impact: Increased Tension
   • Explanation: The development of Intercontinental Ballistic Missiles (ICBMs) by the USSR significantly changed the strategic balance, allowing them to threaten the US directly from afar. This technological leap raised concerns about the vulnerability of the USA, further exacerbating tensions.

5. USSR tests the Tsar Bomba, the biggest explosion ever on Earth (thousands of times more powerful than other nuclear missiles).

   • Impact: Increased Tension
   • Explanation: The Tsar Bomba's test demonstrated the USSR's unparalleled nuclear capabilities, shocking the US and the world. This event reinforced fears of a nuclear arms race and heightened the stakes of military rivalry, leading to increased anxiety and tension globally.

6. Following the Cuban Missile Crisis, the USA and USSR sign the Nuclear Test Ban Treaty (which prevents the testing of any new nuclear weapons).

   • Impact: Decreased Tension
   • Explanation: After a peak of tension during the Cuban Missile Crisis, this treaty represented a concerted effort from both sides to limit the nuclear arms race and promote stability. It indicated a willingness to engage in dialogue and manage their rivalry through formal agreements, thus decreasing tensions relative to previous events.

Order of Events Based on Tension Level

1. Most Tension:
   • 5. USSR tests the Tsar Bomba
   • 4. USSR develops the first ICBM
   • 3. The USA detonates the first hydrogen bomb (followed by the USSR's development of the H-bomb)
   • 2. USSR detonates atom bomb; USA concerned (suspects Soviet spies)
   • 1. The USA drops atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki without the knowledge of the USSR
2. Least Tension:
   • 6. Following the Cuban Missile Crisis, the USA and USSR sign the Nuclear Test Ban Treaty