At first, what explanation did the US give for the presence of the U-2 plane in Soviet airspace?
Based on what you already know so far, which parts of this statement are false?
What does the government of the USSR believe it is necessary to state to the government of the US?
Read the paragraph that begins “Upon examination by experts.” What is the message of the paragraph?
What was the main purpose of the US reply?
Now take another look at the paragraph that begins, “I will say frankly.” Which Cold War policy does this paragraph describe?
Which side was right? Write a paragraph in which you explain which side made a stronger argument and why.Remember to use evidence from the lesson and from primary source documents you have read.
During the Cold War, the United States had the stronger argument for keeping a military deterrent, even though both sides helped drive the arms race. When the Soviet Union successfully tested an atomic bomb in 1949, the U.S. could no longer count on having a nuclear advantage. American leaders argued that military strength could discourage an attack. That was about security. But the growing stockpiles of nuclear weapons also made the world more dangerous and increased mistrust between the countries. So the United States had a stronger case for protecting itself, though both countries should have done more to limit the arms race.
Which of these things did you do in your answer?
Did you find these answers helpful?