During the Cold War, what was one effect of the arms race between the United States and Soviet Union?
A. lack of resources for other countries to grow their militaries
B. constant threat of nuclear war
C. gradual reduction of regular military forces in favor of more nuclear weapons
D. election of pro-war presidents in the United States
B. constant threat of nuclear war
What was the purpose of the Warsaw Pact?
A. to centralize defense among the Soviet-controlled countries
B. to protect Poland from communist attack
C. to create a free trade zone among communist countries
D. to create an alliance between China and the Soviet Union
A. to centralize defense among the Soviet-controlled countries
To determine the effect of the arms race between the United States and the Soviet Union during the Cold War, we need to analyze the options provided.
A. Lack of resources for other countries to grow their militaries: This option suggests that the arms race diverted resources away from other countries, hindering their ability to develop their own militaries. However, the focus of the arms race was primarily between the United States and the Soviet Union, so while it may have indirectly impacted other countries, it wasn't a direct effect.
B. Constant threat of nuclear war: This option highlights a significant effect of the arms race. The accumulation of massive nuclear arsenals by both superpowers created a constant sense of fear and the potential for catastrophic nuclear conflict. The arms race amplified the tension and put the world on the brink of a nuclear war.
C. Gradual reduction of regular military forces in favor of more nuclear weapons: This option suggests that as the United States and the Soviet Union focused on building nuclear weapons, they reduced their conventional military forces. While there were some reductions in regular military forces, it is important to note that both countries maintained significant conventional forces throughout the Cold War alongside their nuclear capabilities. So, while there were reductions, they weren't the sole focus.
D. Election of pro-war presidents in the United States: This option links the arms race to the election of pro-war presidents in the United States. While it is true that the arms race played a role in shaping political dynamics, it is an oversimplification to attribute the election of presidents solely to the arms race. The reasons for electing presidents are multi-faceted, and many factors beyond the arms race influenced these decisions.
In conclusion, the most accurate answer regarding the effect of the arms race between the United States and the Soviet Union during the Cold War is B. constant threat of nuclear war.