How did the Cold War affect America?

Answer 1

It affected us economically just like the Vietnam war did. We did not raise taxes to pay for it. Our economical standard of livilng has been dropping since. We make more money, but the things we buy even went higher. We are paying to keep the same standard of living through credit card debt and mort. debt. When people tap that to the max and consumer spending drops. Watch out.

Answer 2

The effects were fairly numerous, especially considering how many decades it spanned. The easiest effects to see were directly after WWII in the 50s and 60s. The most interesting to me personally is the mass hysteria and paranoia it instilled. Ever heard of hollywood blacklisting? MacArthur? These were both results of the Cold War. Everywhere people were suspicious of others being "red" or communists. Accusations were made, and many people were fired from their jobs and shunned by their neighbors whether the accusations were even remotely possible of being true. MacArthur was at the forefront of making public (especially celebrity) accusations - eventually he discredited himself by looking like a lunatic on live television.
Also the "leave it to beaver"esque family unit was heavily supported, because they believed a healthy family life was the best anti-communistic thing you could do for your society.
Politics, weapons developments, foreign relations...these are all other points that were drastically effected. But to cover all of that in depth would be far longer than a book.

"Homeward Bound" by Elaine Tyler May is an EXCELLENT book for both accurate information and a rather humorous read. Or if you're intrested in a shorter, but much more drab version, I have an old college paper on the topic I'd happily e-mail you.

Answer 3

Afraid of something that does not exist

Answer 4

Just like global warming did.....