The Korean War

Or How the Cold War Became Very Hot in a Very COLD Place

Overarching Concept!

In the Korean War, the Cold War became “hot” (fighting took place) without the US and the USSR actually fighting each other.

Background History to the War When the Japanese

were defeated at the end of World War II, the Korean Peninsula was freed.

Korea was divided along the 38th Parallel.

The northern half became North Korea (communist) while South Korea was democratic.

How War Begins?

A week ago, a student asked how wars begin.

The Korean War is a good example. It began in 1950 as North Korea invaded

South Korea to unite the Korean peninsula as a communist state.

The Super-Powers Get Involved

Out of fear of the “domino theory,” President Truman sent American troops to help South Korea.

North Korea received military aid from China and the Soviet Union.

Course of the War

The North Koreans, with aid by China, were soon overrunning American and South Korean forces.

American military leader, Douglas MacArthur, hero of World War II, began leading American troops and soon reversed the losses and actually pushed all the way into China. At that point, he was fired!

An End Without an End….

Fearing a global war between America and the Soviet Union/China, a cease-fire was signed in 1953.

Korea remained divided at the 38th parallel.

No actual peace treaty was ever signed.