In the space provided, write a paragraph of cause and effect. You may use one of the topics below or one of your own choosing. Mention at least three causes and their three effects.

-friendship as a two-way street
-television and preschoolers
-vitamin deficiency in teenagers
-the United States boycott of the 1980 Olympics

One topic to explore is the United States boycott of the 1980 Olympics. There were several causes that led to this decision. First, the Soviet Union's invasion of Afghanistan in 1979 sparked significant tension and conflict with the United States. This invasion, seen as a violation of international law, outraged U.S. policymakers. Secondly, President Jimmy Carter declared that the United States would boycott the Olympics in response to the Soviet Union's actions. This decision was made to send a strong political message and exert pressure on the Soviet Union. Lastly, the lack of diplomatic resolution and the failure to withdraw Soviet troops from Afghanistan further solidified the decision to boycott the 1980 Olympics.

The effects of the United States boycott were multi-faceted. Firstly, the boycott had a significant impact on the athletes. Many American athletes had trained rigorously for years to compete in the Olympics, and the boycott dashed their hopes and dreams of representing their country on a global stage. Secondly, the boycott strained relations between the United States and the Soviet Union even further, reflecting the broader geopolitical tensions of the Cold War era. This strained relationship continued to shape international politics for years to come. Lastly, the boycott negatively affected the overall atmosphere and spirit of the Games. The absence of a major competitor like the United States left a void in the competition, and many events lacked the same level of excitement and intensity they might have otherwise had.

To get more information on the causes and effects of the United States boycott of the 1980 Olympics, you can conduct further research through various channels. Start by searching for reliable historical sources that provide insights into the geopolitical context of the time, including the Soviet Union's invasion of Afghanistan and the subsequent events. You can also find primary sources such as speeches and statements made by President Jimmy Carter during that period. Additionally, explore scholarly articles and journals that discuss the aftermath and broader implications of the boycott. Consulting multiple sources will provide a well-rounded understanding of the causes and effects of this significant event.