Question

Briefly explain how ONE event or development in the period 1945 to 1980 that is not

explicitly mentioned in the excerpts could be used to support Gaddis interpretation.

Answer 1

John F. Kennedy's New Frontier exemplifies Gaddis's view, showcasing America's simultaneous prosperity and challenge during his presidency, marked by both ambitious social and technological progress and political crises like the Cuban Missile Crisis.

Step-by-step explanation:

John F. Kennedy's New Frontier is an example that aligns with Gaddis's interpretation of the period from 1945 to 1980. Kennedy's program focused on internal improvements and expansionist ideals, encompassing social, economic, and technological advancements. The New Frontier sought to address issues like poverty and racism, advocating for civil rights while also aiming to propel the United States to new levels of space exploration—epitomized by the moon landing in 1969.

On an international scale, the administration faced significant challenges, such as the Cuban Missile Crisis, which highlighted the volatile nature of Cold War politics. Nevertheless, the period was marked by a surge in national confidence and a belief in American innovation and leadership. Kennedy's New Frontier is emblematic of the duality Gaddis describes: a powerful, culturally dominant America, striving for progress amidst social and political upheaval.

Answer 2

Step-by-step explanation:

The aftereffects of the Second World War, which finally ended in 1945 were many and varied. One of the biggest, was a conflict that arose between the then recognized two opposing super powers, the United States and the Soviet Union, known as the Cold War. The reason for this conflict, and which originated from the strife between the two nations over who was more powerful and had more control in the world, was the huge opposing views on how life should be handled. The U.S believed strongly in democracy while the Soviets believed in Communism. Another reason for the power struggle between the two nations was the use by the U.S of nuclear power, which made the Soviets initiate a marathon of nuclear arming, which in turn increased the problems between the two. Whatever the case, this power struggle between these two nations led to one of the biggest divisions in the world and it happened when, after the Great War, the Soviets, who had taken control of most of Germany and Berlin, decided to separate their portion of the city and country with the creation of a huge mortar and brick wall in 1961. This became known as the Great Berlin Wall. This Wall became the paragon and clearest evidence of the division and conflict that was arising once again. But after several revolutions took place in 1989, especially Hungary and Poland against Communist control, the people in Eastern Germany decided to rise as well and in June 1990 up until almost 1992 the demolition of the Wall began. This event showed the shift that President Reagan was asking for, the decision to accept democracy and adopt a more open policy for the sake of peace and the wellbeing of the people.