The Cold War started due to tensions between the United States and Soviet Union. America was afraid of the the Soviet Union’s intention of spreading communism outside the borders of the Union of Soviet Socialist Russian (USSR). Harry Truman and Richard Nixon believed it was America’s role to prevent the USSR’s influence of communism to other countries. Although Harry Truman and Richard Nixon supported anti-communism, each president approached anti-communism with various tactics and ideals. Harry Truman supported the prevention of communism with the Truman Doctrine and Marshall Plan. Truman asked for $400 million to aid Greece and Turkey. He stated, “I believe it must be the policy of the United States to support free people who are resisting attempted subjugation by armed minorities or outside pressures.” This policy dominated for four decades. The policy of containment was emplaced; it said that the United States would not instigate a war with the Soviet Union, but would come into defense of countries in danger of Soviet takeover/communism. The objectives of the policy was to prevent the spread of communism and for the Soviets to retreat from aggressive tactics. The Marshall Plan also provided financial help of $12 …show more content…
Nixon introduced a new foreign policy called détente or “openness.” It stated for countries to respect each other’s differences and cooperate more closely. Unlike Truman, who was strongly against the spread of communism, Nixon associated with communists countries including the USSR and China. Trade facilitated with the Soviets and negotiations took place concerning arms. Nixon was the first president to visit China and ease tensions between the two countries. During Truman’s presidency, the military was prevalent in oversea countries to prevent communism. The Nixon Doctrine withdrew American troops; instead, alliances with local governments checked the spread of