AP US History: Period 8 (1945–1980) 2

Question 1

The policy of containment, articulated in George Kennan's 'Long Telegram,' was primarily aimed at which goal?

Accepted Answer

Preventing the further spread of Soviet communism

Answer

Containment sought to stop the expansion of Soviet influence rather than to overthrow existing communist governments.

Question 2

The Marshall Plan (1948) provided U.S. economic aid primarily to which region?

Accepted Answer

Western Europe

Answer

The Marshall Plan funneled billions in aid to rebuild Western European economies and resist communism.

Question 3

The Berlin Airlift of 1948–1949 was a response to what Soviet action?

Accepted Answer

A blockade of West Berlin

Answer

The U.S. and allies airlifted supplies after the Soviets blockaded ground access to West Berlin.

Question 4

NSC-68 (1950) recommended which major shift in American Cold War strategy?

Accepted Answer

A dramatic increase in military spending

Answer

NSC-68 called for a large buildup of U.S. military forces to counter the Soviet threat.

Question 5

The Korean War ended in 1953 with what outcome?

Accepted Answer

An armistice near the prewar 38th parallel

Answer

An armistice halted fighting near the 38th parallel, leaving Korea divided as before.

AP Practice Test