Foreign Policy
Unit description: In this unit, students will study the period after World War II and how it has been characterized by an ideological and political struggle, first between the United States and communism during the Cold War, then between the United States and forces of instability in the Middle East. In addition, students will investigate increased economic interdependence and competition, as well as environmental concerns, as just a few of the challenges faced by the United States.
Download the complete Grade 8 Social Studies Unit 7 framework to customize for your own planning.
Standards
Standards: 1, 2, 4, 5; Themes: TCC, GEO, ECO, EXCH
Essential Questions and Big Ideas
Big idea of the unit: The period after World War II has been characterized by an ideological and political struggle.
How did the Cold War shape the reconstruction of national boundaries and political alliances across the globe?
- The Cold War was an ongoing struggle between the two nuclear superpowers, the United States and the Soviet Union. The Cold War shaped the reconstruction of national boundaries and political alliances across the globe.
What were the American military and diplomatic policies during this post war time?
- The United States based its military and diplomatic policies from 1945 to 1990 on a policy of containment of communism.
How did the relationships between the United States and foregin countries change following the war?
- Following the end of the Cold War, the United States sought to define a new role in global affairs, but the legacies of Cold War actions continue to affect United States foreign policy today.
How did the United States respond to terrorism?
- Terrorist groups not representing any nation entered and reshaped global military and political alliances and conflicts. American foreign and domestic policies responded to terrorism in a variety of ways.
How has economic interdependence affected the United States and New York State economy, including the workforce?
- Increased globalization has led to increased economic interdependence and competition.