The United States and Refugees During the Cold War: Politics and Society

The Political Landscape of the Cold War

The Cold War was a period of intense political and ideological conflict between the United States and the Soviet Union. This conflict shaped the United States' refugee policy in a number of ways. First, the Cold War led to the creation of a global refugee crisis. As the United States and the Soviet Union competed for influence around the world, they often supported rebel groups and other non-state actors who were fighting against governments that were allied with the other side. This support often led to civil wars and other conflicts that displaced millions of people.

Second, the Cold War led to the creation of a global refugee system. In 1951, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) was established to help resettle refugees around the world. The UNHCR worked with governments and other organizations to provide refugees with food, shelter, and other essential services. The UNHCR also helped refugees to find new homes in countries that were willing to accept them.

Americans at the Gate: The United States and Refugees during the Cold War (Politics and Society in Modern America Book 57)

by Carl J. Bon Tempo

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Language	:	English
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Third, the Cold War led to the development of a number of refugee policies in the United States. These policies were designed to protect the United States from potential threats from refugees. For example, the United States required refugees to undergo a security screening before they could be admitted to the country. The United States also limited the number of refugees who could be admitted to the country each year.

The Social Impact of the Cold War

The Cold War had a significant impact on the social fabric of the United States. The fear of communism led to a number of social and political changes, including the rise of McCarthyism. McCarthyism was a period of intense anti-communist hysteria that led to the persecution of many innocent people. This hysteria also made it difficult for refugees to find acceptance in the United States.

In addition to the fear of communism, the Cold War also led to a number of other social changes in the United States. These changes included the rise of the suburbs, the growth of the middle class, and the increasing popularity of television. These changes made it more difficult for refugees to assimilate into American society.

The Economic Impact of the Cold War

The Cold War had a significant impact on the economy of the United States. The United States spent billions of dollars on the military and on foreign aid. This spending helped to boost the economy and create jobs. However, the Cold War also led to a number of economic problems, including inflation and unemployment. These problems made it more difficult for refugees to find work and to support themselves.

In addition to the economic problems caused by the Cold War, refugees also faced a number of other economic challenges. These challenges included discrimination in the job market and difficulty accessing education and healthcare. These challenges made it difficult for refugees to achieve economic success in the United States.

The United States and Refugees During the Cold War: Politics and Society is a comprehensive examination of the United States' refugee policy during the Cold War. The book explores the political, social, and economic factors that shaped the United States' response to refugees from around the world. It also examines the impact of the Cold War on the lives of refugees and the communities that welcomed them. The United States and Refugees During the Cold War is an essential read for anyone interested in the history of refugee policy in the United States and the Cold War.