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United Nations Formed
The United Nations, an international organization dedicated to fostering peace, security, and cooperation, was established by 51 nations following World War II. It was established to stop future international wars.
Suggested image: the first UN meeting or the UN headquarters building. -
Truman Doctrine
President Harry Truman declared that the United States would support nations opposing communism, particularly Greece and Turkey. America's containment strategy against Soviet influence began with this. -
Marshall Plan
After World War II, the United States provided more than $12 billion in aid to help rebuild Western Europe. In addition to providing financial support, this was a means of fortifying allies and halting the spread of communism. -
“Hollywood Ten”
For refusing to testify before Congress regarding communist influences in Hollywood, ten professionals in the film industry were placed on a blacklist and imprisoned. It represented the American fear of communism and the Red Scare. -
NATO Formed
The United States, Canada, and ten Western European countries formed the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) as a military alliance to protect against Soviet aggression. -
Korean War
North Korea invaded South Korea with support from China and the Soviet Union. There was a standoff and division at the 38th parallel as the United States and other UN members attempted to drive the North Koreans back. -
Space Race / Sputnik
The Soviet Union launched Sputnik, the first satellite in space. This shocked the U.S. and started the Space Race, pushing both countries to invest in space technology. -
Bay of Pigs
A failed invasion of Cuba by CIA-trained Cuban exiles to overthrow Fidel Castro. The mission was a disaster and embarrassed the U.S. internationally. -
Berlin Wall Goes Up
East Germany, backed by the Soviets, built a wall through Berlin to stop people from fleeing to the West. It became a symbol of Cold War division. -
U.S. Officially Enters Vietnam War
After alleged attacks on U.S. ships in the Gulf of Tonkin, Congress allowed President Johnson to send troops to Vietnam, escalating the war effort. -
Soviets Invade Afghanistan
The Soviet Union sent troops to Afghanistan to support the communist government against rebels. The U.S. backed the rebels, making this a key Cold War conflict. -
Berlin Wall Comes Down
After years of pressure, East Germany opened the border and allowed people to cross. Crowds tore down the Berlin Wall, symbolizing the end of the Cold War.