Introduction
Soon after World War II ended, a split occurred between the Soviet Union and other Allied Powers. At issue was the Soviet threat to spread communism beyond its borders. Gradually a cold war developed. Tensions were so high during this period that people feared the outbreak of the world’s first all-out nuclear war. To learn more about the characteristics of the cold war era, visit the "CNN Perspective Series: The Cold War" Web site.

Destination Title: CNN Perspective Series: The Cold War

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Directions
Start at the "CNN Perspective Series: The Cold War" Web site.

• Click on “Culture” and explore the “Television Timeline.” (Be sure to take notes as you navigate the Web site.)
• Next click on “Technology” and read through the “War Breeds Innovation Timeline.”
• Next click on “Espionage” and read the book excerpt from “The Invisible War.”
• Finally, click on “The bomb” and read the letter JFK wrote to the nation, “Preparing for Doomsday.”
• Use what you have learned to answer the questions below.