The early period of Cold War, often considered as a period of fear and tension between the U.S and the Soviet Union, significantly changed the lives of Americans. Although the battle against subversion of communists erupted globally throughout the period between 1940s and 1950, its effects were mainly felt on the home front (Boyer 4). While the onset of Cold War is widely believed to be a period of trepidation and uncertainty for Americans, the period was helpful to Americans as it prompted them to reevaluate their beliefs and daily interactions, thereby bringing a positive effect on their lives.
The early Cold War period saw the life of several Americans in the U.S improve like never before. To begin with, unemployment significantly reduced, the middle class expanded considerably, and the U.S turned to be the most powerful country worldwide (Boyer 9). While these advantages were short-lived due to the emergence of the Soviet Union, they still remarkably brought joy and hopes among most Americans. The reason is that the Americans were not only successful but also happy as they lived the American Dream and found new sources of leisure.
What is more, the emergence of the U.S and the Soviet pushed the U.S to re-evaluate, redefine, and develop its conception of exceptionalism. According to Boyer, due to the perceived rigorousness of the Soviet, American statesmen were compelled to bestow their concerns that a strong internationalism could possibly weaken fundamental national values while also weakening the Unites States government institutions (14). As a result, the leaders devised a plan to enhance security for purposes of protecting the country. The Marshal plan was hence formulated to restore the U.S to ensure it was committed to liberal democracy and stability. As such, the early period of Cold War signaled a more robust and powerful exceptionalism that made Americans to be seen as models of systematic liberty and international protectors.
Works Cited
Boyer, Paul S. American History: A Very Short Introduction. Vol. 334. Oxford University Press, 2012.
