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National Security Council 68 Dbq Essay

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The second document highlights the National Security Council 68, a central document of the Cold War that laid out the strategic foundation for American foreign policy after the devastating decline of western European powers during World War II left the United States and Soviet Union as the dominant nations. The National Security Council argues that the Soviet Union poses a threat due to “being animated by a new fanatic faith” in communism to impose “absolute authority over the world” (Doc 2). This type of behavior is anti-ethical to the American values, so the fight between America and the Soviet Union was inevitable. The document outlined possible responses of isolation, diplomatic efforts to negotiate, or the rapid buildup of strength of …show more content…

To begin, Kennan describes that current policies towards the Soviet Union is flawed since Washington believes that they can influence the Soviets to agree to long-term peaceful coexistence. However, this could never be the solution because the Soviet government is influenced by the dynamics of a “police regime and antagonistic capitalist encirclement” that seeks to destroy the harmony and freedom of America (Doc 1). Since the Soviet mindset of security derives from the idea of deadly destruction of rival Western powers, Kennan argues that diplomacy and peace negotiations will not work. The Soviets “do not work by fixed plans and are impervious to the logic of reason” (Doc 1). Consequently, Kennan’s solution to overcoming the Soviets is “without recourse to military conflict” through spreading awareness of the benefits of Western Freedom and showing pressure and guidance. Overall, Kennan argued that the United States should contain and stop the Soviets rather than appease the Soviet …show more content…

He focused on the character of American society and politics that experienced increased military action. Eisenhower’s message reflects the idea from the National Security Council 68 in that he expresses in order to maintain global peace, the United States “arms must be mighty and ready for action” to prevent destruction and another war. He talks about the changes in industry during the Cold War of the development of a permanent armaments industry that was not existent prior to the world wars, underscoring the arguments of document 1 for America to boast scientific and technological innovation and to increase United States defenses. Also, Eisenhower reflects ideas from the Long Telegram in that his address to all people in the world underscores the political force for oppressed people to recognize and understand the benefits of freedom. This will hopefully bring about peace and be the “binding force of mutual respect” to end the Cold War with the Soviets. Finally, President Eisenhower warns the American people to be diligent on the “military-industrial complex” that has developed in post-World War II years. He warns against the corruption and unwarranted influence of misplaced power that will endanger the democratic processes and human liberties. Leaders must be alert of the proper balance between

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