Results And Changes In The Early Cold War Era ✓ Solved

Results and Changes The early Cold War era marked a very crit

The early Cold War era marked a very critical time for the Americas. During this time, nations saw a rise in globalization paralleled by an explosion of consumerism. These changes brought about power struggles, which ensued as nations clawed their way to the top and into superpower roles. With these changes came increased tension between the democratic and communist nations. In the aftermath of World War II, the fear of a new war weighed heavily on the people of the Americas.

This weight soon caused political, economic, and social division within these nations. In this assignment, you will review, reflect upon, and share your thoughts about the changes people experienced and witnessed during the first decades of the Cold War. To prepare for this assignment, review the L'Unita Interview with Fidel Castro and Salvador Allende's speech from this week's Learning Resources.

Choose two elements from the following: Social, Economical, Political/governmental, Environmental. Imagine that you were born near the end of World War II and that you are now a young adult living in a country we read about this past week (so you would be writing in the 1960s), reflecting on the past two decades of the Cold War. Consider what you would have experienced and witnessed during the Cold War. Think about what it was like to live through the effects of the Cold War. Draw from your readings and consider how the events of this era have created changes in the social, political/governmental, religious, and economic arenas of your country and the world. The assignment: Write a 1-page journal entry for each of the two elements chosen and evaluate the changes you would have experienced and witnessed during this period of the Cold War.

Paper For Above Instructions

Journal Entry 1: Social Changes

Date: 1965

As a young adult born at the end of World War II in one of the Latin American countries, I find myself at the center of a rapidly changing social landscape influenced by the geopolitical tensions of the Cold War. The ideals of democracy and communism vie for the hearts and minds of my peers and community. Living in the 1960s, the societal fabric is unraveling and reweaving in ways I could not have imagined just two decades ago. The pervasive fear of communism has instigated a collective sense of anxiety among the populace.

During this era, consumerism has exploded, marking a significant transition in my community. The introduction of new technological innovations and the availability of various consumer goods have drastically changed our daily lives. However, these advancements are primarily accessible to the affluent classes, leading to increased social stratification and feelings of disenfranchisement among the working class. I see a disconnection between those who can afford the luxuries of modern life and those who struggle to provide basic needs for their families. The gap between the rich and poor is stark, and it makes us question the fairness of the system.

Moreover, the influence of American culture has begun to seep into our society through films, music, and fashion. Youth movements arise in response to this cultural imperialism, pushing back against what we perceive as the encroachment of foreign values on our traditions. The rise of countercultural movements advocating for social justice, equality, and the rights of the marginalized is palpable. I often find myself participating in conversations about the need for reform and a reevaluation of our societal values.

Despite this turmoil, the Cold War has also brought about a unity among younger people who seek change. There's a shared hope that we can redefine our social identity away from the ideologies of the old. Our expectations are shifting; we desire not only material wealth but also social justice and equality. The gathering of collective consciousness among my peers fills me with a sense of optimism, even in the face of adversity.

Journal Entry 2: Economic Changes

Date: 1965

The economic climate of the early Cold War has been turbulent, yet it holds the potential for growth and development. As I reflect on the past two decades, I can recognize how the anxiety stemming from geopolitical tensions has affected our economy in profound ways. The United States’ policy of containment has led to the allocation of resources to fortify alliances in our region, which impacts our economic strategies.

The influence of US economic policies is evident in my country, providing avenues for development through aid and investment. However, this “Americanization” of our economy comes at a cost. Our burgeoning dependency on foreign goods and services raises concerns about our sovereignty and economic autonomy. The duality of benefiting from aid while feeling beholden to a superpower is a source of frustration for many. There is widespread discourse about the potential negative implications of relying on external sources for our economic growth.

Furthermore, the economic landscape is characterized by the rise of consumerism as I witness an influx of foreign products. Advertisements tout the lavish lifestyles that can be achieved through consumption. While this has invigorated the economy to an extent, it has also fostered a culture of materialism that seems to counteract our traditional values. At the same time, grassroots movements advocating for workers’ rights are emerging, demanding fair wages and better working conditions, reflecting the discontent of many workers.

As I navigate the early years of the Cold War, it becomes increasingly clear that economic prosperity is tied to political ideologies. The dichotomy between capitalist and socialist principles is palpable in discussions surrounding economic policy. The rise of leftist ideologies pushes for a reform in how resources are distributed and consumed, questioning the ethical implications of our economic choices.

The collective experiences of uncertainty, political upheaval, and economic change shape my identity as a young adult in this complex period of history. I have come to recognize that the forces of social and economic change are intertwined deeply with the political narratives of the Cold War that continue to shape our lives.

References

• Castro, F. (1960). Speech at the United Nations. The Unitas Interview.
• Allende, S. (1970). Speech on the Nationalization of Copper Mines.
• Gaddis, J. L. (2005). Cold War: A New History. Penguin Press.
• LaFeber, W. (1994). America, Russia, and the Cold War, 1945-2006. McGraw-Hill.
• Hobsbawm, E. J. (1994). Age of Extremes: The Short Twentieth Century, 1914-1991. Michael Joseph.
• Johnson, L. (2007). The Cold War: A New History. Graphic Arts Books.
• Westad, O. A. (2017). The Cold War: A World History. Basic Books.
• Fitzpatrick, S. (2000). The Russian Revolution. Oxford University Press.
• Turner, S. (2021). The Cold War and the Global South. Palgrave Macmillan.
• McMahon, R. J. (2003). The Cold War: A Very Short Introduction. Oxford University Press.