The early period of the 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 the subversion of communists erupted globally throughout the period between the 1940s and 1950, its effects were mainly felt on the home front (Boyer 4). While the onset of the 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 lives of several Americans in the U.S. improve like never before. To begin with, unemployment was significantly reduced, the middle class expanded considerably, and the U.S. turned out 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 hope to 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 Soviets pushed the U.S. to re-evaluate, redefine, and develop its conception of exceptionalism. According to Boyer, due to the perceived rigorousness of the Soviets, American statesmen were compelled to bestow their concerns that a strong internationalism could possibly weaken fundamental national values while also weakening the United States government institutions (14). As a result, the leaders devised a plan to enhance security for the purpose of protecting the country. The Marshal plan was hence formulated to restore the U.S. and ensure it was committed to liberal democracy and stability. As such, the early period of the Cold War signaled a more robust and powerful exceptionalism that made Americans 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.
