Final answer:
The Korean War took place in the context of the Cold War. President Truman responded by providing military support to South Korea and committing US ground forces. His response led to a change in American war aims, including a commitment to stop the spread of Communism.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Korean War took place in the context of the Cold War, a period of political tension between the United States and the Soviet Union. President Truman responded to the Korean War by ordering naval and air support for South Korea, as he saw it as a threat to the spread of Communism. He later committed US ground forces to the war, and although he did not seek a formal declaration of war from Congress, his actions were supported by the American people. Truman's response to the war and the perceived challenge of US credibility led to a change in American war aims, including a commitment to using military force to stop the spread of Communism and an increase in defense spending.