Final answer:
The sustained increase in US peacetime defense spending can be attributed to the Cold War, advancements in military technology, and concerns about the influence of the military-industrial complex.
Step-by-step explanation:
A sustained increase in U.S. peacetime defense spending resulted from various factors throughout history. One major development that led to this sustained increase was the Cold War. During this period, the United States felt the need to maintain a large military and invest heavily in defense due to the threat posed by the Soviet Union. The Korean War in the early 1950s further highlighted the importance of a strong defense, leading to a significant increase in defense spending.
Another development that contributed to sustained defense spending was the desire to maintain military dominance and superiority. Advancements in military technology, such as the development of atomic weapons, radar, sonar, and jet aircraft, created an undeniable military advantage for the United States. To maintain this advantage, the government allocated significant funds for research and development, ultimately resulting in a surge in military spending.
Lastly, there was a concern about the influence of the military-industrial complex. President Eisenhower warned about the potential problems that could arise from the close relationship between the military and defense contractors. Lobbyists representing military equipment manufacturers donated large sums of money to political campaigns, aiming to influence politicians to increase military budgets and purchase their products. This awareness further contributed to the sustained increase in defense spending.