Cold War Nations： West Germany vs Cuba

Focus

• Discuss the effect of the Cold War on nations, not only during the early phase but throughout the entire Cold War period.

• Introduction

  • Cuba: Discuss the impact of the Cold War on Cuban politics and the country’s relationship with the United States.

• West Germany (WG)

  • CDU Party: Describe the centrist party’s wide support and its 20-year rule overseeing the recovery of West Germany.
  • German Economic Miracle: Explain the policies implemented by Chancellor Ludwig Erhard, such as currency reform and the “Social Market Economy” policy, which led to significant economic growth and an improved quality of life.

• Cuba

  • Before Castro: Provide background information on the US-supported, anti-communist regime of Batista.
  • During the Crisis: Discuss the significant impact of Cold War tensions on Cuban politics, Castro’s political leanings, and the declaration of Cuba as a communist country in 1961.
  • After the Crisis: Explore the effects of the Cuban Missile Crisis, Cuba’s close ties with the USSR, and its development of an independent foreign policy through the Non-Aligned Movement. Highlight the projection of power globally, such as Cuba’s involvement in the Angolan Civil War.
  • After the USSR Collapse: Examine the political and economic challenges faced by Cuba after losing its biggest ally and the successful reforms implemented to avoid collapse.

• Domestic Politics

• Foreign Politics

  • West Germany (WG): Discuss the Ostpolitik pursued during the Detente period, aimed at better relations with the Eastern Bloc and reconciliation. Highlight the Treaty of Moscow in 1970 as an example.

• Economic

• Crisis

• Note: Consider focusing on a specific country or comparison, such as West Germany vs. Cuba, to avoid covering too broad a scope.

• Resources: Cold War textbooks on Cuba and West Germany, as well as other relevant sources on the Berlin Crisis.