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Yalta Conference drafts Post-War plan(Feb 1945)

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Yalta Conference drafts Post-War plan(Feb 1945)

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In February 1945, the Yalta Conference was held between the leaders of the Allied powers—Franklin D. Roosevelt (U.S.), Winston Churchill (Britain), and Joseph Stalin (Soviet Union). They met to discuss what the world would look like after World War II ended. At the conference, they agreed to divide Germany into four occupation zones (controlled by the U.S., Britain, France, and the USSR), hold free elections in Eastern Europe, and create the United Nations to help prevent future wars. Although it seemed like a moment of cooperation, many of the promises—like free elections—were later broken, especially by Stalin, which helped lead to the Cold War.

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Yalta Conference drafts Post-War plan(Feb 1945)

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Nagasaki National Peace Memorial Hall for the Atomic Bomb Victims, 7-8 Hiranomachi, Nagasaki, Japan

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In August 1945, the United States dropped two atomic bombs on Japan to end World War II. The first bomb was dropped on Hiroshima on August 6, and the second on Nagasaki on August 9. These were the first and only times nuclear weapons have been used in war. The destruction was massive—both cities were nearly wiped out, and over 100,000 people were killed instantly, with many more dying later from radiation. Just days after the bombings, Japan surrendered, officially ending World War II. These events also showed the terrifying power of nuclear weapons and set the stage for the nuclear arms race during the Cold War.

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Winston Churchill's Iron curtain Speech in Fulton, Mo(March 5, 1946)

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Winston Churchill's Iron curtain Speech in Fulton, Mo(March 5, 1946)

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On March 5, 1946, Winston Churchill delivered his famous "Iron Curtain" speech at Westminster College in Fulton, Missouri. In his speech, he warned the world about the growing power of the Soviet Union and its control over Eastern Europe, describing it as an "Iron Curtain" that had descended across the continent, separating the free countries of the West from the communist-controlled East. Churchill’s speech marked the beginning of public recognition that the Cold War was underway, as tensions between the Soviet Union and the Western powers, especially the U.S., were rising. His words emphasized the need for the West to stand united against the spread of communism.

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Truman Doctrine first applied in Greek Civil War(March 12,1947)

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Truman Doctrine first applied in Greek Civil War(March 12,1947)

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The United States, determined to contain the spread of communism without triggering a third world war, adopted a strategy of supporting non-communist forces in countries facing internal conflict. This approach, known as the Truman Doctrine, was first applied during the Greek Civil War, where the U.S. provided economic aid and military support—often described as "guns and butter"—to help the Greek government defeat communist insurgents. At the same time, similar aid was extended to Turkey to strengthen its resistance against communist influence. This strategy proved successful, as both nations resisted the spread of communism and later became U.S. allies under peace and defense agreements. The Truman Doctrine set a precedent: whenever communism threatened to take hold in a nation, the U.S. would step in to support anti-communist forces, using economic and military assistance as key tools of Cold War diplomacy.

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Truman Doctrine first applied in Greek Civil War(March 12,1947)

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Brussels Airport (BRU), Leopoldlaan, Zaventem, Belgium

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Marshall Plan is announced to rebuild Europe(June 1947)

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Marshall Plan is announced to rebuild Europe(June 1947)

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After World War II, Europe was left in ruins—its cities destroyed, economies collapsed, and millions of people struggling to survive. In this environment of desperation, communism found fertile ground, especially in places like Germany, where the promise of shared wealth and no personal property appealed to those who had lost everything. To counter the spread of communism and help stabilize the region, the United States introduced the Marshall Plan, named after Secretary of State George C. Marshall. This massive recovery effort involved giving over $13 billion in aid to European countries to help rebuild their cities, revive their industries, and restore hope. The plan was a huge success—not only did it rebuild war-torn economies, but it also strengthened the appeal of democracy and capitalism. The only condition was that the money had to be spent on American goods—for example, if a country needed tractors, they had to buy American-made ones like John Deere. The Marshall Plan became a cornerstone of U.S. foreign policy during the Cold War, using economic support to fight the influence of communism in Europe.

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Marshall Plan is announced to rebuild Europe(June 1947)

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Berlin Blockade and Airlift Begins(June 1948)

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Berlin Blockade and Airlift Begins(June 1948)

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In June 1948, the Soviet Union tried to take control of all of Berlin by blocking all roads, railways, and canals that led into the city’s western zones, which were controlled by the U.S., Britain, and France. This was known as the Berlin Blockade. Their goal was to force the Allies to give up West Berlin to the communists. Instead of backing down, the U.S. and its allies responded with the Berlin Airlift, flying in tons of food, fuel, and supplies every day to support the people of West Berlin. The airlift lasted for almost a year and became a powerful symbol of American determination to stop the spread of communism. Eventually, the Soviet Union lifted the blockade in May 1949 after realizing it had failed.

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On April 4, 1949, the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) was formed by the United States, Canada, and ten Western European countries. The purpose of NATO was to create a military alliance where if one member was attacked, the others would come to its defense. This was a direct response to the growing threat of the Soviet Union and the spread of communism in Europe. NATO helped strengthen ties between democratic nations and showed the Soviet Union that the West was united and ready to protect itself. It became a key part of U.S. strategy during the Cold War.

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Semipalatinsk Nuclear Test Site, Kazakhstan

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Russia tests its first atomic bomb(August 20, 1949)

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Russia tests its first atomic bomb(August 20, 1949)

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On August 20, 1949, the Soviet Union shocked the world by successfully testing its first atomic bomb, called "First Lightning." Until then, the United States was the only country with nuclear weapons, and this test ended that advantage. The test showed that the arms race between the U.S. and the USSR was officially on, and it increased fears around the world of a possible nuclear war. Americans were especially surprised because they didn’t think the Soviets would develop the bomb so quickly. This event marked the beginning of a dangerous new phase in the Cold War.

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Russia tests its first atomic bomb(August 20, 1949)

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Mao Zedong wins Chinese Civil War and creates the People’s Republic of China(Oct 1, 1949)

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Mao Zedong wins Chinese Civil War and creates the People’s Republic of China(Oct 1, 1949)

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On October 1, 1949, Mao Zedong declared victory in the Chinese Civil War and officially founded the People’s Republic of China. After years of fighting between the communist forces, led by Mao, and the nationalist forces, led by Chiang Kai-shek, the communists emerged victorious. This event marked the rise of communism in China and the establishment of a new government that would be aligned with the Soviet Union during the early years of the Cold War. The nationalist government retreated to Taiwan, where it continued to claim legitimacy as the government of all of China in exile.

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McCarthyism and the Red Scare take hold in the U.S.(Feb, 1950)

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McCarthyism and the Red Scare take hold in the U.S.(Feb, 1950)

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During the early 1950s, McCarthyism and the Red Scare gripped the United States, fueled by Senator Joseph McCarthy's aggressive campaign to root out alleged communists and Soviet spies. McCarthy became notorious for claiming to have lists of communist infiltrators in the U.S. government, the military, and Hollywood, though these lists never existed. His reckless accusations led to public hearings and investigations, where many innocent people were blacklisted, losing their jobs and reputations based on little or no evidence. McCarthy used fear and paranoia for political gain, stirring up national hysteria. The entertainment industry, especially Hollywood, was a major target, with many filmmakers and actors accused of being communist sympathizers. McCarthy's lies and manipulation ultimately discredited him when his tactics were exposed, but the fear of communism continued to haunt American society, leaving lasting scars on civil liberties and public trust.

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McCarthyism and the Red Scare take hold in the U.S.(Feb, 1950)

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The Korean War happened from 1950 to 1953 when North Korea, supported by China and the Soviet Union, invaded South Korea, which was backed by the United States and other United Nations countries. The war started because North Korea wanted to unite the country under a communist government. Fighting went back and forth across the Korean Peninsula, causing huge destruction and millions of deaths. In 1953, both sides agreed to stop fighting with a ceasefire, but no peace treaty was signed, so North and South Korea are still technically at war. The war left Korea divided at the same border it started—around the 38th parallel.

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H-Bomb tested by US on Bikini Atoll(March 1, 1954)

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H-Bomb tested by US on Bikini Atoll(March 1, 1954)

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On March 1, 1954, the United States tested a powerful hydrogen bomb called "Castle Bravo" at Bikini Atoll in the Marshall Islands. It was the most powerful nuclear test ever conducted by the U.S., and it was much stronger than scientists had expected—about 1,000 times more powerful than the bomb dropped on Hiroshima. The explosion caused massive radioactive fallout, which spread far beyond the test site and affected nearby islands and even a Japanese fishing boat, causing health problems and contamination. This test showed the deadly force of H-bombs and raised global concerns about nuclear weapons and radiation.

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Former KGB headquarters, Pagari tänav, Tallinn, Estonia

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The KGB (Committee for State Security) was established in 1954 in the Soviet Union as a powerful secret police agency. Its main job was to protect the government by spying on its citizens, hunting down political enemies, and preventing any threats to the Communist Party. The KGB was responsible for internal security, intelligence gathering, and even carrying out covert operations in other countries during the Cold War. It became known for its strict control, surveillance, and harsh tactics, playing a major role in maintaining the Soviet regime's power until the USSR dissolved in 1991.

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 CIA helps overthrow unfriendly governments in Iran and Guatemala(March 1954)

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 CIA helps overthrow unfriendly governments in Iran and Guatemala(March 1954)

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In March 1954, the CIA played a key role in overthrowing two foreign governments that were seen as unfriendly to U.S. interests. In Iran, the CIA helped orchestrate a coup to remove Prime Minister Mohammad Mossadegh, who had nationalized the country's oil industry, angering Western powers. In Guatemala, the CIA supported a coup to overthrow President Jacobo Árbenz, who had introduced land reforms that threatened U.S. business interests in the region. These covert operations were part of the U.S. strategy during the Cold War to prevent the spread of communism and protect its economic interests.

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The Warsaw Pact was formed in 1955 as a military alliance between the Soviet Union and seven other Eastern European countries, including Poland, East Germany, Czechoslovakia, Hungary, Romania, Bulgaria, and Albania. The pact was created in response to the formation of NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization) by Western countries. Its purpose was to strengthen the Soviet Union’s control over its satellite states and ensure mutual defense in case of an attack. The Warsaw Pact symbolized the growing tension between the Soviet-led Eastern Bloc and the U.S.-led Western Bloc during the Cold War.

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The Transfermium Wars, starting in 1955, were a series of scientific "battles" where scientists from different countries competed to discover and create new, super-heavy elements—elements with atomic numbers higher than uranium (92). These elements, known as transfermium elements, were hard to make and had very short lifespans, but scientists believed they could unlock new understanding about the structure of atoms. The race involved labs in places like the U.S., the Soviet Union, and Germany, and it sparked intense competition to make breakthroughs in nuclear chemistry. While the "wars" weren’t physical, they were important in the field of science, pushing the boundaries of what we know about matter and the periodic table.

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 Rebellion put down in Hungary(Nov 1956)

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 Rebellion put down in Hungary(Nov 1956)

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In November 1956, the Hungarian Revolution broke out as protests turned into a full rebellion against the Soviet-backed government. People wanted more freedom and independence from the Soviet Union. At first, Soviet forces withdrew, but then the USSR sent in tanks and troops to crush the revolution. The fighting ended with Hungary under a Soviet-controlled government again, and many leaders, like Imre Nagy, were executed. The revolution showed the world how far the Soviet Union would go to keep control over Eastern Europe.

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In August 1957, the Soviet Union successfully launched its first Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM), marking a major step in the arms race between the U.S. and the USSR during the Cold War. This missile could travel long distances, even across continents, and carry nuclear warheads. The launch showed the Soviet Union's growing military power and made the U.S. realize that the threat of nuclear war was much greater.

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Sputnik launched into orbit(Oct 4, 1957)

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Sputnik launched into orbit(Oct 4, 1957)

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On October 4, 1957, the Soviet Union launched Sputnik 1, the first artificial satellite to orbit the Earth. This marked the beginning of the Space Race between the U.S. and the USSR. The launch shocked the world, especially the United States, because it showed that the Soviets had advanced rocket technology and could potentially launch missiles with nuclear warheads anywhere in the world.

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Sputnik launched into orbit(Oct 4, 1957)

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Fidel Castro takes power in Cuba(Jan 1959)

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Fidel Castro takes power in Cuba(Jan 1959)

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In January 1959, Fidel Castro and his revolutionary forces overthrew the government of Cuban dictator Fulgencio Batista. Castro's victory led to the establishment of a communist government in Cuba, which quickly aligned with the Soviet Union. This was a major event in the Cold War because it brought a communist regime to the U.S.'s doorstep, leading to heightened tensions between the U.S. and Cuba, and eventually contributing to the Cuban Missile Crisis.

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Fidel Castro takes power in Cuba(Jan 1959)

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US spy plane shot down over the USSR(May 1960)

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US spy plane shot down over the USSR(May 1960)

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In May 1960, a U.S. U-2 spy plane, piloted by Francis Gary Powers, was shot down over the Soviet Union. The plane was on a mission to gather intelligence on Soviet military sites. Powers was captured by Soviet forces and survived the crash. Initially, the U.S. government claimed the plane was a weather balloon that had strayed off course, but the Soviets presented the wreckage and Powers as evidence, humiliating the U.S. and worsening Cold War tensions. Powers was put on public trial in the Soviet Union, where he was convicted of espionage and sentenced to 10 years in prison, though he was released in 1962 in a prisoner exchange for a Soviet spy. The incident caused a major diplomatic crisis between the U.S. and the USSR, and it shattered any hopes of improved relations during that period.

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US spy plane shot down over the USSR(May 1960)

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In April 1961, a group of Cuban exiles, trained in a secret U.S. military boot camp in Guatemala, attempted to overthrow Fidel Castro’s communist government in Cuba in what became known as the Bay of Pigs Invasion. The U.S. provided support, hoping to spark a popular uprising against Castro. However, the invasion was poorly planned, and the exiles were quickly defeated by Cuban forces. Despite initial U.S. denials, claiming they had no knowledge of the operation, the evidence was clear, making the U.S. look guilty of attempting to overthrow a foreign government. The failure not only embarrassed the U.S. on the world stage but also strengthened Castro's hold on Cuba, pushing him closer to the Soviet Union. The incident was a significant blow to President John F. Kennedy, damaging his reputation and exposing the U.S.’s covert operations as ineffective and harmful.

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Berlin Wall Memorial, Bernauer Straße, Berlin, Germany

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Construction of Berlin Wall begins(Aug 17, 1961)

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Construction of Berlin Wall begins(Aug 17, 1961)

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On August 17, 1961, the construction of the Berlin Wall began. The wall was erected by the German Democratic Republic (East Germany), with support from the Soviet Union, to physically divide East Berlin (the communist-controlled area) from West Berlin (which was under Western, capitalist control). The wall was built to stop the massive flow of East Germans fleeing to the West through Berlin, which had become a symbol of the broader Cold War divide. The wall stood as a powerful symbol of the separation between the communist East and capitalist West, and its construction marked a deepening of tensions between the U.S. and the Soviet Union.

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Construction of Berlin Wall begins(Aug 17, 1961)

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In October 1962, the Cuban Missile Crisis brought the world to the brink of nuclear war. The U.S. discovered that the Soviet Union was secretly installing nuclear missiles in Cuba, just 90 miles off the U.S. coast. In response, President John F. Kennedy ordered a naval quarantine around Cuba to prevent further shipments of Soviet missiles. Tensions soared as the U.S. and the Soviet Union faced off, with both sides on high alert. For 13 days, the world anxiously waited as diplomatic negotiations took place. Ultimately, Soviet Premier Nikita Khrushchev agreed to remove the missiles in exchange for a U.S. pledge not to invade Cuba and the secret removal of U.S. missiles from Turkey. The crisis ended peacefully, but it marked a major turning point in the Cold War, highlighting the dangers of nuclear weapons.

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Nuclear Test Ban Treaty ratified(July 1963)

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Nuclear Test Ban Treaty ratified(July 1963)

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In July 1963, the United States, the United Kingdom, and the Soviet Union agreed to the Limited Nuclear Test Ban Treaty, marking a significant step in reducing Cold War tensions. The treaty prohibited nuclear weapons tests in the atmosphere, in outer space, and under water, though it still allowed underground testing. This agreement was a direct response to growing public concern over radioactive fallout from nuclear tests and a broader desire to ease hostilities between the world’s major nuclear powers. It represented a major diplomatic achievement and laid the groundwork for future arms control agreements.

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Nuclear Test Ban Treaty ratified(July 1963)

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Gulf Of Tonkin Farm, Unnamed, Road, Tuần Châu, Ha Long, Quảng Ninh, Vietnam

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 Gulf of Tonkin incident and resolution(August 1964)

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 Gulf of Tonkin incident and resolution(August 1964)

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In August 1964, the Gulf of Tonkin Incident involved two separate confrontations between North Vietnamese forces and the U.S. Navy in the waters off the coast of North Vietnam. Reports claimed that North Vietnamese torpedo boats attacked the USS Maddox and later the USS Turner Joy, though the details of the second attack remain disputed. In response, the U.S. Congress quickly passed the Gulf of Tonkin Resolution, which gave President Lyndon B. Johnson broad authority to use military force in Southeast Asia without a formal declaration of war. This marked a significant escalation in U.S. involvement in the Vietnam War, effectively giving the president a blank check to wage war in the region.

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Gulf of Tonkin incident and resolution(August 1964)

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 US Marines sent to Dominican Republic to fight Communism(April 1965)

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 US Marines sent to Dominican Republic to fight Communism(April 1965)

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In April 1965, the United States deployed over 20,000 Marines and soldiers to the Dominican Republic in response to a civil war that had erupted between supporters of the democratically elected but ousted president Juan Bosch and conservative military forces. The U.S. government, under President Lyndon B. Johnson, claimed the intervention was necessary to prevent a Communist takeover similar to Cuba’s. This action, known as Operation Power Pack, was widely criticized internationally and domestically as an overreach of U.S. power and a violation of Dominican sovereignty. However, it reflected Cold War-era U.S. policy of intervening in Latin America to contain the spread of communism.

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US Marines sent to Dominican Republic to fight Communism(April 1965)

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White House, Pennsylvania Avenue Northwest, Washington D.C., DC

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 US announcement to dispatch 200,000 US troops to Vietnam(July 1965)

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 US announcement to dispatch 200,000 US troops to Vietnam(July 1965)

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In July 1965, President Lyndon B. Johnson announced the decision to send an additional 200,000 U.S. troops to Vietnam, marking a major escalation in U.S. involvement in the Vietnam War. This came after growing concerns that South Vietnam was losing ground to the Communist Viet Cong and North Vietnamese forces. The troop surge signaled a shift from limited engagement to a more direct and large-scale military commitment. Johnson presented it as necessary to prevent the spread of communism in Southeast Asia under the domino theory, but the move also deepened American entanglement in a costly and controversial conflict.

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QL5B, Kim Đới, Kiến Thụy District, Hai Phong, Vietnam

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B-52s Bomb N. Vietnam in Operation Rolling Thunder(1966)

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B-52s Bomb N. Vietnam in Operation Rolling Thunder(1966)

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In 1966, the United States escalated its air campaign in the Vietnam War through Operation Rolling Thunder, a sustained bombing campaign targeting North Vietnam’s infrastructure, supply lines, and military positions. The operation was intended to weaken North Vietnam's ability to support the Viet Cong insurgency in the South. The campaign, which began in 1965, included the use of B-52 bombers, which carried out large-scale bombing raids to target strategic locations. While the bombings caused significant destruction, they also intensified anti-American sentiment, and the North Vietnamese showed resilience despite the heavy bombardment.

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B-52s Bomb N. Vietnam in Operation Rolling Thunder(1966)

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 Red Army crush Czechoslovakian revolt(August 1968)

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 Red Army crush Czechoslovakian revolt(August 1968)

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In August 1968, the Soviet Union and its Warsaw Pact allies sent in the Red Army to crush the Prague Spring in Czechoslovakia, a movement led by Alexander Dubček that sought to introduce political reforms and greater freedoms within the communist system. Dubček's reforms, including greater political openness (known as "socialism with a human face"), alarmed Soviet leaders, who feared that these changes could lead to the spread of reformist movements throughout Eastern Europe. The Soviet intervention ended the Prague Spring, restored a more orthodox communist regime in Czechoslovakia, and reaffirmed Soviet control over the Eastern Bloc.

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Red Army crush Czechoslovakian revolt(August 1968)

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 Apollo 11 lands on the moon(July 20, 1969)

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 Apollo 11 lands on the moon(July 20, 1969)

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On July 20, 1969, the Apollo 11 mission successfully landed the first humans on the Moon, marking a historic achievement in space exploration. Led by NASA, astronauts Neil Armstrong, Buzz Aldrin, and Michael Collins were part of the mission. Armstrong became the first person to set foot on the lunar surface, famously declaring, “That’s one small step for [a] man, one giant leap for mankind.” The mission was a major victory for the United States in the Space Race against the Soviet Union during the Cold War, and it showcased the U.S.'s technological prowess and commitment to scientific advancement.

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Apollo 11 lands on the moon(July 20, 1969)

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 Publication of the Pentagon papers(1971)

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 Publication of the Pentagon papers(1971)

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In 1971, the Pentagon Papers were published, revealing a classified study of U.S. political and military involvement in Vietnam from 1945 to 1967. The papers, leaked by former Defense Department employee Daniel Ellsberg, exposed a pattern of government deception, showing that U.S. officials had misled the public and Congress about the Vietnam War's progress and the likelihood of success. The publication of these documents, primarily by The New York Times, led to a major political scandal and raised questions about the U.S. government's transparency and accountability. The release played a crucial role in eroding public trust in the government and contributed to growing anti-war sentiment.

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Publication of the Pentagon papers(1971)

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In February 1972, President Richard Nixon traveled to China, becoming the first U.S. president to visit the country. This visit was very important because it helped improve relations between the United States and China, which had been enemies for a long time. Nixon met with Chinese leaders like Mao Zedong and Zhou Enlai to talk about peace, trade, and how to work together against the Soviet Union during the Cold War. The visit showed that the U.S. was willing to make new allies, even with former enemies, and it opened the door for better communication and future agreements between the two countries.

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In July 1972, the United States and the Soviet Union signed SALT I (Strategic Arms Limitation Talks Agreement), which was an important step in reducing the risk of nuclear war during the Cold War. This agreement limited the number of certain types of nuclear weapons both countries could have, like missiles and launchers. It didn’t stop the arms race completely, but it was a big moment because it showed that the U.S. and the USSR were willing to talk and try to avoid a full-scale nuclear conflict. SALT I helped ease tensions and was the beginning of a policy called détente, which aimed to improve U.S.-Soviet relations.

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 US supported coup overthrows Chilean government(Sept, 1973)

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 US supported coup overthrows Chilean government(Sept, 1973)

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In September 1973, the U.S. supported a military coup in Chile that overthrew the country’s elected president, Salvador Allende, who was a socialist. The U.S. government was worried that Allende’s policies were too close to communism and feared Chile would become another ally of the Soviet Union during the Cold War. After the coup, General Augusto Pinochet took power and ruled Chile as a dictator. While the U.S. saw the new government as a win against communism, many people criticized the U.S. for supporting a regime that used violence, censorship, and torture to control the country.

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Sinai peninsula, Al Wadi Al Gadid Desert, Egypt

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Egypt and Syria attack Israel; Egypt requests Soviet aid(Oct 1973)

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Egypt and Syria attack Israel; Egypt requests Soviet aid(Oct 1973)

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In October 1973, Egypt and Syria launched a surprise attack on Israel during Yom Kippur, one of the holiest days in Judaism. This conflict became known as the Yom Kippur War. Egypt wanted to take back land it lost to Israel in a previous war, especially the Sinai Peninsula. When the fighting got intense, Egypt asked the Soviet Union for help. At the same time, the United States sent weapons and supplies to support Israel. The war raised Cold War tensions because both superpowers were backing opposite sides, and it almost led to a direct confrontation. A ceasefire was eventually reached, but the war changed the way the U.S. and Soviet Union got involved in the Middle East.

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Egypt and Syria attack Israel; Egypt requests Soviet aid(Oct 1973)

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 S. Vietnam falls to Communist N. Vietnam(April 17, 1975)

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 S. Vietnam falls to Communist N. Vietnam(April 17, 1975)

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On April 17, 1975, South Vietnam fell to communist North Vietnam, officially ending the Vietnam War. After years of fighting and the withdrawal of U.S. troops in 1973, South Vietnam was left to defend itself. Without enough support, it couldn’t stop the North Vietnamese army, which captured Saigon (the capital of South Vietnam). This led to the unification of the country under a communist government, now called the Socialist Republic of Vietnam. The fall of South Vietnam was a major loss for the U.S., which had spent years and billions of dollars trying to stop the spread of communism in Southeast Asia.

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S. Vietnam falls to Communist N. Vietnam(April 17, 1975)

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 Soviet and Cuban forces help to install Communist government in Angola( Feb 1976)

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 Soviet and Cuban forces help to install Communist government in Angola( Feb 1976)

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In February 1976, Soviet and Cuban forces helped install a communist government in Angola after a civil war broke out following the country's independence from Portugal. Several groups were fighting for power, but the Soviets and Cubans supported the MPLA (Popular Movement for the Liberation of Angola), a Marxist group. Meanwhile, the U.S. and South Africa supported the opposing groups trying to stop communism. In the end, the MPLA took control, and Angola became one of the few African countries with a communist government. This event showed how the Cold War spread even into Africa, with both superpowers trying to gain influence.

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Soviet and Cuban forces help to install Communist government in Angola( Feb 1976)

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US and China officially establish diplomatic relations and trade & Panda Diplomacy(Jan 1979)

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US and China officially establish diplomatic relations and trade & Panda Diplomacy(Jan 1979)

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In January 1979, the United States and China officially established full diplomatic relations, ending decades of Cold War hostility. This was a major step following President Nixon’s earlier visit in 1972. The two countries agreed to recognize each other formally and open embassies, which also made it easier to trade and work together economically. One of the most famous symbols of this new friendship was “Panda Diplomacy” — when China gave two pandas to the U.S. as a gift, which became a big hit with the American public. The agreement helped both nations but also created a new balance of power in Asia during the Cold War.

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In February 1979, China launched an invasion of Vietnam in response to Vietnam’s overthrow of the Khmer Rouge regime in Cambodia. The Khmer Rouge, led by Pol Pot, was a communist government notorious for its genocidal policies, targeting intellectuals, educated people, and those deemed tainted by Western influence. Vietnam's intervention to end the Khmer Rouge’s reign was seen as a threat by China, which had supported the Khmer Rouge. In retaliation, China sought to punish Vietnam for overthrowing a fellow communist regime. The war, known as the Sino-Vietnamese War, was brief but intense. Despite being outnumbered, Vietnam held its ground, and the conflict ultimately ended with no clear victor. The war demonstrated the complex dynamics within communist powers during the Cold War era, where ideological alliances were often tested by regional conflicts.

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Shah of Iran overthrown; Iran Hostage Crisis begins(Nov 1979)

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Shah of Iran overthrown; Iran Hostage Crisis begins(Nov 1979)

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In November 1979, the Shah of Iran, Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, was overthrown after months of protests, primarily led by young college students and other revolutionaries, culminating in the Iranian Revolution. These groups, along with broader segments of Iranian society, opposed the Shah’s autocratic rule and his pro-Western policies. The revolution led to the establishment of a theocratic government under Ayatollah Khomeini, who rejected Western influence and became the supreme leader of the new Islamic Republic of Iran. The U.S. had supported the Shah due to Iran's vast oil reserves, which were crucial to America's energy needs. Shortly after the Shah’s exile, Iranian militants seized the U.S. Embassy in Tehran and took 60 American diplomats and citizens hostage. This event, known as the Iran Hostage Crisis, lasted for 444 days and severely strained U.S.-Iran relations. At the time, Jimmy Carter was the U.S. president, and the crisis became a defining challenge of his presidency. The event symbolized the rise of anti-Western sentiment in the Middle East and marked the beginning of a long period of tension between the United States and the newly established Islamic Republic of Iran.

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Shah of Iran overthrown; Iran Hostage Crisis begins(Nov 1979)

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 Soviet forces invade Afghanistan(Dec 1979)

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 Soviet forces invade Afghanistan(Dec 1979)

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In December 1979, the Soviet Union invaded Afghanistan to support the struggling communist government against growing resistance from anti-communist Muslim guerrillas, known as the mujahideen. The invasion was meant to stabilize the Afghan government, but instead, it led to a prolonged conflict. The Soviets installed a new leader, Babrak Karmal, but he failed to gain popular support. The mujahideen, backed by the United States and other countries, fought fiercely against Soviet forces, turning the war into a major Cold War battleground. The conflict lasted nearly a decade, draining Soviet resources and contributing to the eventual collapse of the USSR.

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Soviet forces invade Afghanistan(Dec 1979)

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US Hockey defeats USSR at winter olympics in Lake Placid, NY.(Feb 22, 1980)

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US Hockey defeats USSR at winter olympics in Lake Placid, NY.(Feb 22, 1980)

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On February 22, 1980, the U.S. men's hockey team pulled off one of the greatest upsets in sports history by defeating the heavily favored Soviet Union in the Winter Olympics at Lake Placid, New York. The Soviet team had dominated international hockey for years, but the young American squad, made up mostly of college players, fought hard and won 4-3 in a stunning victory. This game, later called the "Miracle on Ice," was a defining moment in Cold War-era sports, symbolizing American resilience and determination. The U.S. went on to win the gold medal after defeating Finland in their final match.

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US Hockey defeats USSR at winter olympics in Lake Placid, NY.(Feb 22, 1980)

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US Boycotts Summer Olympics in Moscow(June-Aug 1980)

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US Boycotts Summer Olympics in Moscow(June-Aug 1980)

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In the summer of 1980, the United States led a boycott of the Moscow Olympics to protest the Soviet Union's invasion of Afghanistan. President Jimmy Carter pushed for the boycott, and around 65 nations joined the U.S. in refusing to participate. Despite the absence of many Western countries, the Games went on, with the Soviet Union dominating the medal count. The boycott was a significant moment in Cold War tensions, showing the U.S.'s stance against Soviet aggression. However, some athletes were disappointed, as they lost their chance to compete on the world stage.

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US Boycotts Summer Olympics in Moscow(June-Aug 1980)

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Reagan proposes SDI or “Star Wars”(1983)

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Reagan proposes SDI or “Star Wars”(1983)

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In 1983, President Ronald Reagan proposed the Strategic Defense Initiative (SDI), also known as "Star Wars," a missile defense system designed to act as a nuclear "umbrella" to protect the United States from nuclear missile attacks. The system aimed to use advanced technologies, such as satellites and lasers, to intercept and destroy incoming Soviet missiles both in space and in the atmosphere. Reagan's proposal came during the height of the Cold War, as tensions between the U.S. and the Soviet Union were escalating. SDI was meant to provide a protective shield, making it unnecessary for the U.S. to rely on mutually assured destruction (MAD) as the primary deterrent. The initiative was nicknamed "Star Wars" by critics because many saw it as too futuristic and unrealistic, similar to the fictional universe of the Star Wars movies. Critics doubted its technical feasibility, effectiveness, and the enormous cost of developing such a system. Despite these concerns, SDI became a symbol of the U.S.'s commitment to technological and military superiority, though it was never fully realized.

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Reagan proposes SDI or “Star Wars”(1983)

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US troops invade and overthrow regime in Grenada(Oct 1983)

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US troops invade and overthrow regime in Grenada(Oct 1983)

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In October 1983, the United States launched a military invasion of Grenada, a small Caribbean island, to overthrow its communist-aligned government. The U.S. was concerned about growing Soviet and Cuban influence in the region, especially after a violent coup had taken place within Grenada’s leadership. President Ronald Reagan justified the intervention by claiming it was necessary to protect American citizens, including 600 American students living on the island, and to restore democracy. The invasion was swift, lasting only a few days, and resulted in the installation of a new government more aligned with U.S. interests. While the operation faced international criticism, it was largely seen as a victory for the U.S. in the broader Cold War struggle against communism.

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 Eastern Bloc boycotts LA Summer Olympics(July-Aug, 1984)

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 Eastern Bloc boycotts LA Summer Olympics(July-Aug, 1984)

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In the summer of 1984, the Soviet Union and other Eastern Bloc countries boycotted the Los Angeles Olympics, citing concerns over security and alleged U.S. political manipulation of the games. The boycott was widely seen as a retaliation for the U.S. decision to skip the 1980 Moscow Olympics in protest of the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan. In total, 14 communist nations refused to participate, significantly reducing competition in certain events. Despite the absence of some powerhouse athletes, the LA Olympics were still a major success, with record-breaking performances and a large global audience. The boycott was yet another example of Cold War tensions spilling into cultural and sporting arenas rather than direct military confrontation.

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 Gorbachev begins “glasnost” and “perestroika” in efforts to reform the USSR(1985)

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 Gorbachev begins “glasnost” and “perestroika” in efforts to reform the USSR(1985)

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In 1985, Gorbachev became the last leader of the Soviet Union, inheriting a country in deep economic and political crisis. The U.S. was spending billions on technological advancements and an escalating arms race, leaving both superpowers burdened with debt. In response, Gorbachev introduced two major reforms: glasnost and perestroika. Glasnost aimed to open Soviet society by allowing greater freedom of speech, press, and elections, fostering transparency and citizen engagement. Meanwhile, perestroika sought to revitalize the struggling economy by permitting limited capitalism, foreign investments, and market competition—allowing companies like Coca-Cola into the Soviet Union and encouraging industries to improve. Although these efforts were meant to stabilize the USSR and satisfy its people, they ultimately came too late and were insufficient to reverse the nation's decline, leading to its eventual collapse in 1991.

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Gorbachev begins “glasnost” and “perestroika” in efforts to reform the USSR(1985)

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 Soviet troops withdraw from Afghanistan(Jan 1989)

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 Soviet troops withdraw from Afghanistan(Jan 1989)

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In January 1989, Soviet troops withdrew from Afghanistan after nearly a decade of fighting. The Soviet Union had invaded Afghanistan in 1979 to support its communist-aligned government against rebel groups known as the Mujahideen, who were backed by the United States and other countries. The war was long, costly, and unpopular, draining Soviet resources and leading to high casualties. By the late 1980s, the USSR was struggling economically, and the conflict had become too difficult to sustain. Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev decided to end the war, and the last Soviet soldiers left Afghanistan in early 1989. Even after their departure, Afghanistan remained unstable, eventually leading to further conflicts in the region. The withdrawal was seen as a major Cold War loss for the Soviet Union, showing how difficult it was for them to maintain influence abroad.

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Soviet troops withdraw from Afghanistan(Jan 1989)

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Poland, Hungary, Czechoslovakia, Bulgaria and Romania oust Communist governments(1989)

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Poland, Hungary, Czechoslovakia, Bulgaria and Romania oust Communist governments(1989)

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In 1989, Poland, Hungary, Czechoslovakia, Bulgaria, and Romania all removed their communist governments, marking a major shift in Eastern Europe. For decades, these countries had been under Soviet influence, ruled by communist leaders who often controlled citizens through strict laws and limited freedoms. However, by the late 1980s, people were tired of economic struggles and government repression. Inspired by reforms in the Soviet Union and protests across Eastern Europe, citizens pushed for change. In Poland, free elections led to a non-communist government. Hungary started reforming, moving toward democracy. In Czechoslovakia, the Velvet Revolution saw massive peaceful protests that forced the communist leadership to step down. Bulgaria and Romania also faced uprisings, though Romania’s transition was violent, ending with the execution of dictator Nicolae Ceaușescu. These revolutions were part of the larger collapse of communism, leading to the fall of the Soviet Union just two years later.

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Poland, Hungary, Czechoslovakia, Bulgaria and Romania oust Communist governments(1989)

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In June 1989, thousands of pro-democracy protesters, mostly students, gathered in Tiananmen Square in Beijing, China, demanding government reform, freedom of speech, and political change. For weeks, the protest remained peaceful, but the Chinese government saw it as a threat to its control. On June 3-4, the Chinese military moved in with tanks and soldiers, opening fire on unarmed civilians. Hundreds, possibly thousands, of people were killed, and many more were arrested or went missing. The massacre shocked the world, leading to international condemnation of the Chinese government. Even today, the Chinese government tightly controls information about Tiananmen Square, and discussing the event publicly in China is restricted. The massacre became a symbol of the fight for democracy and human rights, reminding people of the dangers of government oppression.

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Berlin Wall Memorial, Bernauer Straße, Berlin, Germany

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The fall of the Berlin Wall in November 1989 was a major turning point in history. Built in 1961, the wall had divided East and West Berlin, representing the Cold War’s tensions between communism and democracy. By the late 1980s, protests were increasing, Eastern European countries were pushing for more freedom, and the Soviet Union’s control was weakening. On November 9, an East German official mistakenly announced that citizens could cross the border freely, leading thousands of Berliners to gather at the wall. In an incredible moment, people began tearing it down, marking the start of German reunification and the decline of Cold War divisions. This event helped open the door to greater political freedom in Eastern Europe and changed global relations.

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The State Kremlin Palace, Moscow, Russia

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Boris Yeltsin elected as President of Russia(May 1990)

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Boris Yeltsin elected as President of Russia(May 1990)

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Boris Yeltsin’s election as President of Russia in May 1990 was a significant moment in the country’s political history. At the time, the Soviet Union was struggling with economic problems and growing demands for reform. Yeltsin, a bold and outspoken politician, had been pushing for changes that would give Russia more independence from Soviet control. When he won the presidency, it showed that people were ready for a shift toward democracy and a market economy. His leadership played a key role in the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991, as Russia moved away from communist rule and toward a new political and economic system. His election marked the beginning of a dramatic transformation in Russia’s government and society.

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Boris Yeltsin elected as President of Russia(May 1990)

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Brandenburger Tor, Pariser Platz, Berlin, Germany

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Germany’s reunification on October 3, 1990, was a historic moment that officially ended the country’s division after World War II. For over four decades, East Germany had been under communist rule, controlled by the Soviet Union, while West Germany was a democratic nation aligned with Western allies. The fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989 marked the beginning of change, and soon, leaders from both sides worked toward merging the two nations. In the months leading up to reunification, political agreements were made, and the German people overwhelmingly supported the move. On October 3, East Germany officially became part of West Germany, creating a unified country once again. This event not only transformed Germany’s political and economic landscape but also signified the end of Cold War divisions in Europe. In the years that followed, Germany emerged as one of the strongest nations in Europe, playing a key role in global affairs.

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 USSR dissolved - 15 Republics gain independence, including Russia.  (Aug 1991)

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 USSR dissolved - 15 Republics gain independence, including Russia.  (Aug 1991)

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The dissolution of the Soviet Union in August 1991 was one of the most significant political events of the 20th century. For decades, the USSR had been a powerful communist state, but by the late 1980s, economic struggles, growing nationalist movements, and political changes had weakened its control. In August 1991, an attempted coup by hardline communist leaders failed, further accelerating the collapse. As a result, 15 republics, including Russia, declared independence, officially marking the end of the Soviet Union. This event reshaped global politics, bringing an end to the Cold War and leading to major economic and governmental shifts in the newly independent countries. Russia emerged as the largest successor state, navigating a transition from communist rule to a new political and economic system.

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USSR dissolved - 15 Republics gain independence, including Russia.  (Aug 1991)

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Cold War Rivalry: Competition Without Direct War

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Cold War Rivalry: Competition Without Direct War

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During the Cold War, the United States and the Soviet Union engaged in intense competition without direct warfare, relying on political and ideological containment, technological and scientific advancements, and economic and diplomatic maneuvering to assert global dominance and counter each other's influence.