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United Nations formed
The United Nations is established to promote international cooperation and peacekeeping efforts between nations. -
Truman Doctrine
A policy announced by U.S. President Harry S. Truman to provide military and economic assistance to Greece and Turkey in order to prevent the spread of communism in the region. -
Hollywood 10
A group of Hollywood screenwriters and directors who were accused of communist sympathies and refused to testify before the House Un-American Activities Committee (HUAC). -
Marshall Plan
A U.S. program to aid Western Europe with economic assistance to help rebuild after World War II and contain the spread of communism. -
NATO formed
The North Atlantic Treaty Organization is established by the United States, Canada, and several Western European countries as a military alliance for mutual defense against the Soviet Union. -
Korean War
A conflict between North and South Korea supported by the Soviet Union and the United States, respectively, that resulted in a ceasefire and a divided Korea. -
Space Race/Sputnik
The Soviet Union launches Sputnik, the first artificial satellite, into space, sparking a competition between the Soviet Union and the United States to explore space and develop advanced technology. -
Bay of Pigs
A failed CIA-sponsored invasion of Cuba by Cuban exiles in an attempt to overthrow the communist government of Fidel Castro. -
Berlin Wall goes up
East German authorities build a wall separating East and West Berlin in order to prevent citizens from fleeing to the West. -
U.S. official enters Vietnam War
The United States sends combat troops to Vietnam to support the South Vietnamese government against communist forces in the region. -
Soviets invade Afghanistan
The Soviet Union invades Afghanistan to support the communist government in the country, leading to a long and costly war. -
Berlin Wall comes down
The Berlin Wall is dismantled by East German authorities, symbolizing the end of the Cold War and the reunification of Germany.