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What was the primary objective of the United States' containment policy during t...

Mar 2, 2024

What was the primary objective of the United States' containment policy during the Cold War?

Answer

The primary objective of the United States' containment policy during the Cold War was to prevent the spread of communism by the Soviet Union to other countries.

Key Concept

The policy of containment was a central element of U.S. foreign policy from the late 1940s until the end of the Cold War. (KC-8.1.II.C)

Explanation

The containment policy was based on the belief that communism needed to be contained and isolated, or it would spread to neighboring countries, much like a domino effect. This policy shaped many aspects of American foreign policy, including the Truman Doctrine, the Marshall Plan, and the United States' involvement in conflicts such as the Korean War and the Vietnam War.