Independence Movements and the Cold War

The video explores two major mid-20th century struggles: the Cold War and decolonization. The Cold War was a geopolitical tension between the US and the Soviet Union, characterized by differing economic systems—capitalism and communism. Decolonization involved colonies fighting for independence from global empires. These struggles were interconnected, as both superpowers sought influence over emerging nations. By the 1990s, most colonies gained independence, and the Soviet Union collapsed, leaving the US and capitalism dominant. However, new global issues emerged from these historical events.

What were the two major global struggles that dominated the mid-20th century?

• The Cold War and the Space Race

• The Cold War and decolonization

• Decolonization and the Industrial Revolution

• The Space Race and the Industrial Revolution

How did the economic systems of the US and the Soviet Union differ?

• The US was communist, the Soviet Union was capitalist

• Both were capitalist

• The US was capitalist, the Soviet Union was communist

• Both were communist

What was a key reason for the entanglement of the Cold War and colonialism?

• Common language

• Similar political systems

• Need for raw materials

• Shared cultural values

What did independence fighters in colonized regions primarily seek?

• Technological advancement

• An independent nation-state

• Cultural assimilation

• Economic dominance

Which ideas did independence fighters adopt from Western empires?

• Economic policies

• Sovereignty and legitimacy

• Cultural practices

• Military strategies

How did the Cold War superpowers view decolonization movements?

• As allies in cultural exchange

• As irrelevant to their interests

• As opportunities in their struggle

• As threats to their power

What role did anti-colonial networks play in the independence movements?

• They focused on economic aid only

• They discouraged collaboration

• They provided mutual support

• They isolated each movement

How did new technologies like television aid independence movements?

• By promoting cultural shows

• By broadcasting local news

• By spreading propaganda

• By appealing for international support

What was the outcome of the Cold War by the 1990s?

• The Cold War continued

• The Soviet Union expanded

• Communism triumphed globally

• The US and capitalism emerged triumphant

What does the conclusion of the video hint at?

• The rise of new empires

• The dominance of communism

• Emerging issues of community and networks

• The end of global conflicts