Write multi-sentence responses for the prompts below. Be specific and give examples from the history we have learned.

A. The United States found itself competing with the Soviet Union in the Cold War after 1946. Write ONE paragraph and tell how the tensions started and where in the world this boiled over into confrontation and fighting. (8 points)

B. The speech below reveals some of the postwar politics of the United States. Write a brief commentary (3-5 sentences) in which you identify the speaker and what his agenda was. What did it mean for the early 1950s in America? (10 points)
The reason why we find ourselves in a position of impotency is not because our only powerful potential enemy has sent men to invade our shores . . . but rather because of the traitorous actions of those who have been treated so well by this Nation. It has not been the less fortunate, or members of minority groups who have been traitorous to this Nation, but rather those who have had all the benefits that the wealthiest Nation on earth has had to offer . . . the finest homes, the finest college education and the finest jobs in government we can give.

This is glaringly true in the State Department. There the bright young men who are born with silver spoons in their mouths are the ones who have been most traitorous. . . .

I have here in my hand a list of 205 . . . a list of names that were made known to the Secretary of State as being members of the Communist Party and who nevertheless are still working and shaping policy in the State Department. . . .

—Sen. Joseph McCarthy 1950

C. How did the civil rights movement evolve in the 1950s and what tactics were adopted by the new leaders in their fighting for equality? Write 3-5 sentences in response and be specific. (6 points)

D. What did the G. I. Bill do? How did it affect American families after WWII? (6 points)

Section 2: Essay (30 points)
In this section, you will show your knowledge of the content by constructing a three-paragraph essay. Remember to use examples from this unit, be specific, and follow proper paragraph- and essay-writing conventions.

Write a three-paragraph essay in answer to this question: How did the Cold War affect political and economic life in Europe?

Organize your thoughts around these questions:

What situation in 1945 made it necessary for the victors in World War II to decide questions about Europe?

How did mistrust between former allies affect developments in postwar Europe?

How did the need to rebuild after the war affect the choices made by the US and the Soviet Union?

What tools did the US and the Soviet Union use to accomplish their power goals in Europe?

Now that you have organized your thoughts, write your essay below.