Question

Why was the korean war a major turning point in the cold war?

Answer 1

At the end of World War 2, American And Soviets forces entered Korea to disarm the Japanese troops stationed there. The allies divided Korea at the 38th parallel of latitude. Soon as the Cold War Began, talks to reunify Korea broke down. A communist Korean government was organized in the north, while an American-backed government controlled the south. Both governments claimed authority over Korea, So on June 25, 1950, North Korean troops invaded the south, Driving back the poorly equipped South Korean forces.

Answer 2

Until 1950, the US mainly used political pressure and economic aid to contain communism. After the Korean War, the USA embarked on a major military buildup. They had previously only focused on Europe, but now they included Asia in their focus on containing communism.