Origins of the Cold War

Abstract

The United States continues its role as a world superpower in the 21st century. Since much of our involvement in global affairs today stems back to the Cold War, it raises the importance of specific instruction in the origins of the Cold War for today’s students. With the influence our nation possesses, and the integral role of citizenry that students will soon acquire as voters, this project argues the relevance of their deep understanding of our historical past which permits the individual to use said insight to form their own opinions and beliefs. This project examines the concept of student’s comprehensive understanding of our shared history as potential partners and creators of successful solutions in future foreign relations and long-term security for the nation and the world. The thesis project begins with a close study of the origins of the Cold War centered on the scholarly debate. Original research and reflection comprises the second section with special attention to primary source materials focused on the major conferences held during World War II between the United States, Britain, and Russia. The third section is a history course curriculum on the Cold War. The specific course, History of the Americas, takes place over a two year time span. The second year of the course concentrates on 20th century topics and since the Cold War era heavily influenced world affairs, American foreign policy and military strategies; it naturally dominates the course content. The curriculum was developed for an International Baccalaureate level class. Lessons and materials were created to enable the students to construct an in-depth understanding of the origins of the Cold War, encompassing the years 1943-1949, as well as understand any possible conflicting viewpoints of the era. The curriculum includes course outline, resources, and student worksheets.