The Cold War - 1945-1991

Bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki

Aug 6, 1945

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atomic_bombings_of_Hiroshima_and_Nagasaki

Cold War

Period: Aug 6, 1945 to Aug 19, 1991

Berlin Airlift

Jun 24, 1948

America aids Berlin in a year long campaign.

NATO is Founded

Apr 4, 1949

In response to defend themselves against the USSR, NATO was created, under the terms of an attack on any of its members would be an attack on all of its members.

The Soviet Union detonates its first atomic bomb.

Aug 29, 1949

With this initial test, the Soviet Union propelled themselves into a much closer race with the USA in nuclear testing.

The Soviet Union and The People's Republic of China sign a pact of mutual defense.

Feb 14, 1950

The Treaty was yet another roadblock for the allied forces.

Truman signs the Mutual Security Act

Oct 10, 1951

This signing was Truman announcing, and its communist powers in particular, that the U.S. was prepared to provide military aid to "free peoples."

The Warsaw Pact is formed.

May 14, 1955

The Warsaw Pact was the Soviet Union's response to Nato.

The Vietnam War

Dec 1, 1956

Yet another playing stage in the world is held between the two super powers of the world. This time between the divided country of Vietnam. North Vietnam being supported by China, and South Vietnam being supported by the USA.

Sputnik is launched

Oct 4, 1957

With the space race in full effect, the Soviet Union outshines America by sending the first satellite into space.

NASA is Formed

Oct 4, 1958

America next big move to propel them through the space race is to form the National Aeronautics and Space Administration.

The Cuban Missile Crisis

Oct 14, 1962

Under the administration of President Kennedy, the world reached the closest point to Nuclear War yet. With missiles found in Cuba, America deciding to take unsuccessful action with the Bay of Pigs. However, ever though it was a disaster, all-out war was averted and the conflict stayed cold.

Detente

Jan 1, 1969

Started during Nixon's administration, Detente created a time of more hospitable relations between the two super powers. However, this ended when Reagan was elected.

The Soviet Union invades Afghanistan

Dec 24, 1979

The Soviet Union moved into Afghan to help the communist supporters gain control of power. Their stay lasted nine long years, and its consequences are still apparent to this day.

The Fall of the Berlin Wall

Nov 9, 1989

After over 28 years of separating the city, The Berlin Wall is finally breached and both sides of the city are united again. This is one of the most visually significant events in the decline of the Soviet Union.

The First McDonalds opens in Moscow

Jan 13, 1990

One of the most iconic signs that the long stalemate was over, the installation of the popular American fast food chain signifies the complete dissolving of the Soviet Union.