histcasestudyweek7 (2)

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History

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Apr 3, 2024

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HIST405 02/27/2024 Week Seven Case Study American Domestic and Foreign Policies (1953-1991) Chamberlain University College of Nursing History 405 Professor Patrick O'Hara February 27, 2024
Brooklynn Colon HIST405 02/27/2024 The period from the early 1950s to 1991 was marked by significant shifts in American domestic and foreign policies. As the United States struggled with economic challenges, social change, and global tensions, Presidents such as Eisenhower, Kennedy, Johnson, and Reagan skillfully navigated these difficulties. These presidents left lasting legacies that shaped American history, from highways to human rights, from the Cuban Missile Crisis to Reaganomics. Dwight D. Eisenhower's presidency (1953 to 1961) During Eisenhower's presidency, he introduced the "New Look" policy, which aimed to balance military strength with economic stability. The policy heavily relied on nuclear weapons as a deterrent against Communist aggression. This shift led to substantial investments in research and development, resulting in rapid advancements in missile technology and radar sensitivity. In addition, Eisenhower supported covert operations through the CIA and strengthened alliances with nonaligned countries by fostering friendships. On the domestic front, Eisenhower championed the construction of the interstate highway network. These highways facilitated economic growth, improved transportation, and connected communities. In addition to the positive civilian impact, the new road network served a military purpose by enhancing the nation's ability to deploy troops swiftly during emergencies. In relation to civil rights, Eisenhower did not agree with forcing southern states to integrate their schools, but when southern states were compelled by the Supreme Court to admit their first nine African American students, known as the Little Rock Nine, To ensure their safety and uphold their rights, Eisenhower deployed the U.S. Army's 101st Airborne Division to escort the students to and from school, as well as between classes (OpenStax,2019). This action
Brooklynn Colon HIST405 02/27/2024 demonstrated the federal government's commitment to upholding the rights of African Americans in the South during a critical period of change. John F. Kennedy's presidency (1961-1963) Kennedy's foreign policy was marked by both achievements and failures. He embraced a containment policy to counter the spread of communism. Despite failures like the Bay of Pigs Invasion, Kennedy's commitment to diplomacy advanced democratic ideals. A pivotal moment came during the Cuban Missile Crisis in 1962, when his administration skillfully averted nuclear conflict with the Soviet Union. Recognizing the Soviet lead in the space race, Kennedy advocated for landing an American on the moon (OpenStax,2019). This strategic investment not only propelled military technologies, including long-range missiles, but also spurred profitable innovations in aviation and communication. Furthermore, he established the Alliance for Progress, aimed at promoting economic growth and stability in Latin American countries vulnerable to communism (openStax, 2019). Additionally, Kennedy founded the Peace Corps, deploying idealistic volunteers worldwide for humanitarian projects. Kennedy's achievements in his domestic policies primarily came in the form of poverty relief and care for the disabled. The passage of the Mental Retardation Facilities and Community Mental Health Centers Construction significantly bolstered public mental health services (OpenStax,2019). Kennedy supported legislation to expand unemployment benefits (Britannica, n.d.). Under his presidency, the food stamps program was successfully piloted. Additionally, The Revenue Act of 1964 provided relief to taxpayers and stimulated economic growth. In reference to civil rights, John F. Kennedy was focused on securing voting rights for
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