Darren Mowrer

P3

5-16-00

Reviewing Facts, Chapter 33

1. What were the effects of the Cold War arms race between superpowers?

There were several effects of the arms race. Large amounts of money were spent on the military and the development of weapons. This was money that could have been spent on social programs and business development. The constant battle to stay ahead of the other countries led to the build up fear and distrust between countries. There was also a general fear of a large nuclear war that could have terrible results.

2. What conflict caused violence in Northern Ireland?

When Ireland won independence from Britain in 1922, Britain kept control of six northern counties. Catholics were often discriminated against in British controlled Protestant counties and many demanded independence and reunification of Ireland. Protestants wanted to remain part of Britain. The Irish Republican Army attacked British troops and committed acts of terrorism.

3. What event made the reunification of Germany possible?

The reunification of Germany was made possible because of the decline of communism and the lack of support and control from the Soviet Untion. The communists leaders in East Germany could not stay in power and were forced out of office. Helmut Kohl, the chancellor of West Germany, pushed for a united Germany and assured the world that a united Germany would be no threat to world peace.

4. What was the source of tension between Quebec and the Canadian government?

The source of tension between Quebec and the Canadian government is caused by the "distinct society" and languages differences in French speaking Quebec. Quebec wanted more autonomy within Canada and government leaders tried to meet their demands. But other provinces resented the idea of Quebec wanting special treatment. Some in Quebec want to become a separate country. This issue is still a problem.

5. Why was the Soviet economy less efficient than western capitalist economies?

The Soviet economy was less efficient because decisions were made by government officials instead of "supply and demand." The agricultural production was poor and they often needed to import goods to feed the people. Manufactured goods were of inferior quality and there was very little innovation. There was no incentive for workers to work harder to experiment with new ideas because they had jobs for life and were not rewarded for innovation.

6. What was the largest and most powerful country formed by the Soviet Union?

The largest and most powerful country formed by the breakup of the Soviet Union was Russia. The country has tried some democratic reforms but the people are not used to being a part of a democracy; they are only used to the government making decisions for them. There are still problems with ethnic groups in the country. They have also been trying capitalism, but it has been hard on the economy: unemployment, shortages, and high prices. Some were successful in business but that caused resentment by those who were having problems. There were also increases in crime. Old Communists leaders began to get support.

7. What economic changes did Eastern European nations make after the fall of communism?

The changes made by Eastern European nations involved attempts at democracy and capitalism. Like in Russia, this caused new problems that the people and the new leaders did not know how to deal with. The citizens had been used to a poor standard of living, but government run businesses guaranteed it. Capitalism requires changes and risk which was something new. Some people are impatient with the time it takes to develop a new system.

8. How did the breakup of Yugoslavia differ from the breakup of Czechoslovakia?