American sentiment

Definition

American sentiment refers to the collective attitudes, beliefs, and emotions of the American people regarding national issues, policies, and events. In the context of the end of the Cold War, this sentiment was shaped by various factors, including public opinion on foreign policy, perceptions of communism, and the desire for peace and stability after decades of tension with the Soviet Union.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. During the late 1980s, American sentiment shifted towards a more optimistic view regarding international relations as people felt hopeful about an end to the Cold War.
2. Public opinion polls showed increasing support for arms reduction and dialogue with the Soviet Union as fears of nuclear war subsided.
3. The fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989 was seen as a significant turning point that symbolized a shift in American sentiment towards supporting democratic movements in Eastern Europe.
4. Many Americans were eager to focus on domestic issues after years of foreign policy prioritization, leading to increased interest in economic prosperity and social issues.
5. The dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991 was largely welcomed in America, reflecting a collective relief and a belief that democracy had triumphed over communism.

Review Questions

• How did American sentiment evolve during the late Cold War period, particularly in relation to foreign policy?
  • American sentiment during the late Cold War evolved towards optimism and a desire for peace. As public fears about nuclear conflict diminished, there was growing support for arms control measures and diplomatic engagement with the Soviet Union. Events such as Gorbachev's reforms and the fall of the Berlin Wall played crucial roles in shaping this positive sentiment, indicating a collective belief that confrontation could give way to cooperation.
• Analyze how key events at the end of the Cold War influenced American sentiment towards democracy in Eastern Europe.
  • Key events like the fall of the Berlin Wall and democratic uprisings in Eastern Europe significantly influenced American sentiment towards supporting democracy abroad. As these events unfolded, many Americans saw them as evidence that communism was failing and that democratic ideals were gaining traction. This shift not only changed perceptions about foreign policy but also reflected a broader belief in the triumph of freedom over oppression, encouraging further American support for similar movements worldwide.
• Evaluate the impact of American sentiment on post-Cold War foreign policy decisions in the 1990s.
  • The impact of American sentiment on post-Cold War foreign policy decisions was profound, as optimism about global peace led to a reevaluation of U.S. international engagement strategies. With many Americans feeling relieved about the end of superpower tensions, policymakers were encouraged to pursue a more interventionist approach in areas like humanitarian aid and support for emerging democracies. This shift reflected a belief that America had a unique role in promoting democracy and stability around the world, while also addressing domestic concerns about economic challenges and social issues.

Related terms

Detente:

A period of eased tensions and improved relations between the United States and the Soviet Union during the 1970s, characterized by arms control agreements and diplomatic negotiations.

Perestroika:

A policy initiated by Mikhail Gorbachev in the 1980s aimed at reforming the political and economic system of the Soviet Union, which contributed to the eventual collapse of communist rule.

Cold War:

A prolonged period of geopolitical tension between the United States and its allies against the Soviet Union and its allies from the end of World War II until the early 1990s.