END OF WWII, BEGINNING OF COLD WAR Though the US and the Soviet Union

fought together during WWII, relations quickly thawed due to differing political ideologies.

As WWII ended, the Soviet Union began annexing countries, creating what was known as the Eastern Bloc. Democratic countries and Communist countries were divided by what was known as the iron curtain.

America, afraid of Communism, began a foreign policy (Truman Doctrine, containment) dedicated to stopping the spread of Communism through out the world. This would lead to both the Korean and VietNam wars.

To further complicate matters, both the US and the Soviet Union possessed nuclear weapons. This began what was known as the arms race.

DEMOCRACY US decisions from

who is President to what teenagers watch on TV, made by majority rule

Soviets argued true democracy can only be secured in an economic system that rewards everyone equally.

Otherwise a few will take advantage of those in poverty.

EQUALITY US same chance to

succeed by giving equality to everyone adversely affects society.

Soviets Equality is essential for

healthy society. Basic needs are cared for.

CAPITALISM US can better

yourself through hard work

Brings out best in people

Soviet Competition

breads selfishness Cooperation, love,

concern for others should be the focus

INDIVIDUALISM US individual

has potential to reach highest level of success.

Incentives move society.

Soviets Society creates

many losers Inequality and

exploitation

COLLECTIVISM US says violates

basic human nature competition

Soviets Everyone works

for the good of the whole

SOCIALISM US says

this denies people of basic needs the right to own property

Soviets Wealth of

society should be spread to all of the community

TOTALITARIANISM US says creates

dictatorships, denies freedoms

Soviets It is required to

transform a society from unequal to equal. Protect from selfishness.

FREEDOM US core for happy

and healthy society

Soviets People are not

free unless they have a fair share of the wealth. Need to control things so capitalists do not take advantage of the weak.

ECONOMY US: Free Market, allows for competition

and encourages people to work harder. More laissez faire than anything else

Soviet Union: Command economy, government should set prices, quantities and decide workers’ wages