Cold War Era and Threats to American Families Essay Example
During the Cold War, there was a conflict between Communist nations, led by the Soviet Union, and democratic nations, led by the United States. The two countries represented opposing government systems. One major concern for Americans was the risk of a nuclear war, as demonstrated by the devastating bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. The possibility of a full-scale nuclear exchange was a terrifying prospect. The tension escalated when Cuba received a nuclear missile from the Soviet Union, leading America to take whatever measures necessary to protect itself.
According to Farber (2012), the problem is that even if a nuclear war is won, victory will still be unsatisfactory. Whether we win or lose, entering a nuclear war will result in global destruction. In the event of a nuclear attack on America, individuals must prepare to ensure the safety of their families
...and themselves. One preparation that can be made is finding or constructing a fallout shelter. These shelters offer protection from external elements as well as nuclear, biological, and chemical warfare.
In the event of an invasion or nuclear war, it is essential to have a sufficient stock of goods and supplies. This includes clean water and uncontaminated food for yourself and your family. Another necessity is a transistor radio to receive pertinent information regarding the cold war. Today, advancements in technology and research have enabled the production of more durable materials and suits like the MOPP gear, utilized by the United States Armed Forces for mission-oriented protective posture.
The specialized clothing and equipment, known as MOPP gear, provides protection against nuclear, biological, and chemical contaminations. By wearing this gear,
the potential for chemical exposure is significantly decreased, ultimately reducing the risk of death. Earl Bailey, an engineer at the Lockheed aerospace plant in Georgia, created an intricate warning code for his family to use in the event of a nuclear attack (Faber 1994). When Kennedy assumed the presidency, he was determined to take decisive action in the fight against communism worldwide.
Protests against the American government's involvement in the Cuban invasion, a decision that Kennedy associated with the Bay of Pigs invasion, took place worldwide. Kennedy attempted to conceal America's role and waited for six days before informing the American public about the presence of nuclear missiles. If President Kennedy had exhibited more caution and thoughtful analysis, the risk of nuclear warfare for both America and the rest of the world would have been minimized. The impulsive decision could have been avoided if he had dedicated more time to problem-solving and examining potential solutions. Consequently, there would not have been a power struggle nor a concern over nuclear missiles, thus eliminating the threat they posed.
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