Sem2.HW3

1. "How convincing was America's attempts to influence other parts of the world to side with them in the Cold War?" [39.4]

In 1953, the US government created the United States Information Agency (USIA) to influence other's hearts and minds by words and persuations. They used propaganda to raise fears of communism and highlight the benefits of capitalist democracy through films or radio broadcast, so it was very convincing to influence other to side with them.

In 1949, the US used foreign aid to assist other countries from the Third World, so they can gain new allies. On the other hand, the Third World really needed their support, so it was a win win situation for both side.

2. "How wise were America's decisions to produce advanced weapons during the Cold War's first 20 years?"[39.5]

It was not so wise for US to race to develop weapons against Soviet Union around 1950s and 60s. However, they were intelligent in quickly building strong weapons, such as H-bomb, nuclear missiles and submarines. It was also wise for the invention of the US scientists.

It was wise for US to produce advanced weapons as a threaten to contain Soviet Union. In 1950s, the government developed a foreign policy, Brinkmanship. Because of different strong weapons, the US was able to threaten Soviet Union and China that the US would use its nuclear weapons if they pushed too much.