Topic 1: Nixon/Carter & the 1970s
Explain globalization and how it influenced the American economy in the 1970s.
Globalization in the 1970s involved the increasing interconnectedness of economies, cultures, and populations across the globe, facilitated by advancements in technology and communication. For the American economy, globalization meant greater competition from foreign markets and an influx of imports. This led to a decline in certain industries in the U.S. as American companies struggled to compete with cheaper foreign goods. The reliance on foreign oil also became more pronounced, especially during the oil crises of the 1970s, which further complicated the economic landscape through inflation and unemployment.
Describe the purpose of OPEC and how they reacted to American support of Israel.
The Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) was formed to coordinate and unify petroleum policies among member countries to secure fair and stable prices for petroleum producers. In response to American support of Israel during the Yom Kippur War in 1973, OPEC members imposed an oil embargo on the U.S. and other nations supporting Israel. This drastically reduced oil supplies and led to significant increases in oil prices, contributing to global economic turmoil and fueling inflation in the American economy.
Explain the importance of oil in American foreign policy during this era.
Oil was vital to American foreign policy in the 1970s as it became a key strategic resource. The U.S. sought to secure stable access to oil supplies, particularly from the Middle East, to support its economy and military operations. The energy crises highlighted America's dependence on foreign oil, leading to increasing geopolitical tensions, diplomatic aid for oil-producing nations, and a shift toward energy conservation and alternative energy policies.
Select the two most significant events from the lesson that affected American relations with countries in the Middle East.
- The Yom Kippur War (1973) - This conflict resulted in the oil embargo by OPEC, which led to a major energy crisis in the U.S. and strained relations with Arab nations.
- The Iranian Revolution (1979) - The overthrow of the Shah and the establishment of an anti-American regime strained U.S.-Iran relations and contributed to the energy crisis, as Iranian oil production was severely disrupted.
Topic 2: Reagan & the 1980s
Explain how Reagan handled issues with the Soviet Union which led to the End of the Cold War.
Reagan adopted a confrontational approach towards the Soviet Union, initially ramping up military spending and rhetoric against communism. He pushed for a strategic defense initiative (SDI), also known as "Star Wars," and engaged in a series of arms reduction negotiations. His approach shifted towards diplomacy in the latter half of the 1980s, notably through summits with Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev, resulting in significant arms treaties like the INF Treaty. These efforts, combined with internal pressures within the USSR, contributed to the end of the Cold War.
Why were the 1980s considered a conservative era? Use two examples to support your answer.
The 1980s were considered a conservative era due to a shift towards traditional values and a focus on free-market economics.
- Economic Policies: Reagan's economic policies, known as "Reaganomics," emphasized tax cuts, deregulation, and reduced government spending, reflecting conservative principles of limiting government intervention in the economy.
- Cultural Conservatism: The rise of the Moral Majority and similar movements highlighted a resurgence of conservative social values, including opposition to abortion and gay rights, influencing public policy and political discourse.
Explain the economic issues that faced Reagan when he took office and his Reaganomics plan. Was it successful? Defend your answer.
Upon taking office, Reagan faced high inflation, high unemployment, and an economic recession. His Reaganomics plan included tax cuts aimed at stimulating growth, deregulation to promote business, and reducing government spending. While initially, the economy suffered from high interest rates and unemployment in the early years, by the mid to late 1980s, the economy experienced significant growth, helping to reduce inflation and unemployment. Critics argue that the benefits disproportionately favored the wealthy and increased income inequality; nonetheless, many view the overall economic recovery as a success.
Select the two most significant events from the lesson as the best examples of the Reagan Doctrine.
- U.S. Involvement in Central America (e.g., Nicaragua and the Contras) - Reagan's support for anti-communist insurgents in Latin America exemplified his commitment to contain Soviet influence globally.
- Military intervention in Grenada (1983) - The U.S. invasion was framed as a response to the perceived Soviet threat in the Caribbean, showcasing Reagan's assertive foreign policy approach.
Topic 3: Terrorism & Globalization
Describe the social, policy, and environmental issues that were significant at the turn of the century.
At the turn of the century, significant social issues included rising concerns over inequality and representation, especially regarding racial and gender disparities. Policy issues focused on healthcare, education, and immigration reform. Environmental issues gained attention with climate change becoming a pressing concern, leading to calls for sustainable practices and international agreements such as the Kyoto Protocol.
Explain the difference between domestic and foreign terrorism with examples.
Domestic terrorism refers to violent acts committed by residents within their own country, motivated by political or ideological beliefs. An example is the 1995 Oklahoma City bombing, carried out by Timothy McVeigh. Foreign terrorism involves violent acts committed by individuals or groups that originate from outside the country, often targeting a nation’s citizens or interests. An example is the September 11 attacks in 2001, orchestrated by the terrorist group al-Qaeda.
Explain the three trade organizations that formed (APEC, WTO, & NAFTA) and how they affected the American economy.
- APEC (Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation) - Aimed to promote free trade and economic integration among Pacific Rim countries, leading to increased trade opportunities for the U.S. in Asia.
- WTO (World Trade Organization) - Established to regulate international trade, reducing tariffs and increasing trade agreements, benefitting U.S. imports and exports by fostering a rules-based international trading system.
- NAFTA (North American Free Trade Agreement) - Created a trilateral trade bloc between the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, leading to increased trade and economic growth in North America. However, it also faced criticism for the loss of manufacturing jobs in the U.S.
Describe human rights and how terrorism affects both in America and in the world.
Human rights refer to the inalienable rights and freedoms that belong to every person, including the right to life, liberty, freedom of expression, and security. Terrorism poses significant challenges to human rights, as it can result in loss of life, violation of civil liberties, and the implementation of restrictive measures that undermine freedoms. In America, the response to terrorism often leads to increased surveillance, curtailing privacy rights and freedoms, while globally, terrorism can exacerbate conflicts, lead to humanitarian crises, and create displacement, further undermining human rights.
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