Cold War: The Truman Doctrine and Marshall Aid Return to the case study menu
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Comprehension
1a Look at the first paragraph. According to Truman, what actions have been taking place which the USA is unhappy about? Who is he criticising here?
1b Look at paragraphs 2-4. What is the choice facing the people of the world?
1c Put Truman's policies into your own words.

Analysis and Interpretation
1d From your knowledge of the events of the time, do you agree with Truman's analysis of the situation?
1e Truman's speech was well received in the USA. Does this surprise you?
1f Stalin was very critical of Truman's speech. He said that the USA giving massive aid to Greece and Turkey meant the USA would demand military bases and have huge influence over the running of these countries. This was exactly the same as the USSR controlling Eastern Europe. Do you think he had a good case or do you think Stalin would have criticised Truman whatever he said?

Case Study Question
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The Big Question
Look at your answers to the questions on source 1.
  • Has this source given you any ideas about awkward questions to ask the leaders?
  • What evidence have you found which you think they will find hard to explain?
    		• Source 1Source 2Source 3Source 4Source 5Source 6

    Extracts from President Truman's speech of March 12th 1947 - The Truman Doctrine (Project Whistlestop and National Archives and Records Administration)

    Source 1