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Cold War Origins — Reading Comprehension

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D2.HIS.2.3-5
D2.HIS.3.3-5
RI.4.3
RI.4.4
W.4.2

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This engaging passage examines the origins of the Cold War, focusing on the rivalry between the United States and the Soviet Union after World War II. Students will learn how conflicting ideologies, the pursuit of global influence, and the development of nuclear weapons contributed to decades of tension—without direct military conflict—between two emerging superpowers. The text uses a compare-and-contrast structure to highlight differences in government, economics, and beliefs, while modeling historical reasoning and the use of evidence. Vocabulary words such as 'ideology', 'superpower', and 'tension' are woven into the narrative, with a glossary provided for deeper understanding. The resource is aligned to HSS 11.9.1 and CCSS.RI.6-8.1, RI.6-8.3. Additional features include a Spanish translation, a differentiated version for developing readers, multiple-choice and writing activities, graphic organizers, a timeline, and a relevant public domain image. Audio support is available for read-aloud accessibility.

CONTENT PREVIEW

Potsdam conference 1945-8.jpg
Source: Wikimedia Commons - Army Signal Corps Collection in the U.S. National Archives.

The Cold War began shortly after the end of World War II, as the United States and the Soviet Union emerged as rival superpowers. Although they had worked together to defeat Nazi Germany, their differences quickly led to growing tension. The Cold War was not a traditional war with armies fighting directly. Instead, it was a period of political, economic, and military rivalry that lasted for decades.

The main cause of the Cold War was the conflict between two different ideologies. The United States believed in democracy and capitalism, where people could vote for their leaders and own private property. The Soviet Union supported communism, where the government controlled the economy and one political party made most decisions. These opposing systems created deep suspicion and distrust.

After World War II, both countries wanted to shape the world according to their own ideas. The United States promoted freedom and economic growth in Western Europe, while the Soviet Union spread its influence in Eastern Europe. The division of Germany and the city of Berlin into separate zones controlled by different countries became a symbol of this struggle. The Iron Curtain described the dividing line between democratic Western Europe and communist Eastern Europe.

As tension increased, the United States and Soviet Union entered an arms race. Both sides built up large numbers of nuclear weapons, trying to stay ahead and prevent the other from gaining an advantage. This competition was dangerous and led to fears of worldwide destruction. Although the two superpowers never fought each other directly, they became involved in conflicts in other countries, such as Korea and Vietnam, by supporting opposing sides.

The Cold War also featured propaganda campaigns, espionage (spying), and efforts to gain allies around the globe. Each side tried to prove its system was better. The United States formed alliances like NATO, while the Soviet Union created the Warsaw Pact. These alliances increased the sense of division between East and West.

Despite the dangers, the Cold War had some positive effects, such as advances in science, technology, and space exploration. However, the competition also caused anxiety and affected daily life for millions of people. The Cold War shaped international relations for nearly half a century, ending only with the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991.

Interesting Fact: The term "Cold War" was first used by writer George Orwell in 1945 to describe a world living in the shadow of nuclear weapons and political conflict.

When did the Cold War begin?

After World War IIBefore World War IIn 1991During the Vietnam War

Which two countries were superpowers?

United States and Soviet UnionFrance and BritainGermany and JapanChina and India

What divided Western and Eastern Europe?

Iron CurtainBerlin WallGreat WallPacific Ocean

Why did the US and Soviet Union mistrust each other?

Different ideologiesSame leadersBoth were democraciesShared a language

What is an arms race?

Building more weaponsRunning a marathonTrading goodsSharing technology

How did the Cold War affect daily life?

Caused anxietyNo effectMade people happyCreated new countries