Social Studies - United States History II
Lesson Plans
U.S. II Strand 7: THE COLD WAR ERA AND A CHANGING AMERICA
(Ca. 1950-2000)
Cold War ideologies have shaped American life and influenced foreign policy since the middle of the 20th century. Cold War rivalries escalated into hot wars in Korea and Vietnam. Alliances led to proxy wars in a number of contested areas. An arms race escalated fears. Eventually, American and Soviet leaders eased Cold War tensions, and the Soviet Union dissolved, ushering in a period of uncertainty in global affairs. American interests in the Middle East have complicated international policies. Differing political philosophies spurred debates over the size and role of government. Throughout the era, American society, education, culture, and politics were shaped by Cold War tensions, technological developments, and changing demographics.
Possible Guiding Questions to Consider:
- How did the Cold War shape domestic policies, foreign policies, and popular culture?
- What lessons can be learned from the Vietnam and Korean Wars?
- How was McCarthyism a reflection of Cold War tensions?
- How did wartime technologies lead to peacetime innovations, such as nuclear weapons/ power, space exploration, computers, and communication?
- What were the main goals of President Johnson's Great Society?
- What philosophy regarding the role of government influenced President Reagan's New Federalism?
- How did America's relationship with Israel affect its relationship with other Middle Eastern nations?
- How has American culture been influenced by technological developments?
- How did the Watergate crisis demonstrate the strengths and weaknesses of modern U.S. politics?
U.S. II Standard 7.1:
Students will compare the causes, major events, military tactics, and outcomes of the Korean and Vietnam Wars.
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Nearpod - The Vietnam War: Key Events & Protests; 7-12
This Nearpod allows students to review key events and discuss military placement during the Vietnam War. There is also an explanation of anti-war protests. There is SENSITIVE CONTENT. Students are able to review why the Vietnam War inspired anti-war movements, give an overview of the war, and provide interactive features for students to share their thoughts.
http://www.uen.org - in partnership with Utah State Board of Education
(USBE) and Utah System of Higher Education
(USHE). Send questions or comments to USBE
Specialist -
Robert
Austin
and see the Social Studies website. For
general questions about Utah's Core Standards contact the Director
-
Jennifer
Throndsen.
These materials have been produced by and for the teachers of the
State of Utah. Copies of these materials may be freely reproduced
for teacher and classroom use. When distributing these materials,
credit should be given to Utah State Board of Education. These
materials may not be published, in whole or part, or in any other
format, without the written permission of the Utah State Board of
Education, 250 East 500 South, PO Box 144200, Salt Lake City, Utah
84114-4200.