What is the cold war? Why do we call it that?

military realized Alaska’s strategic value during the era’s early years. What countries is it close to? What strategic role would Alaska play in a war between the United States and Russia?Ģ) Why do you think the Alaskan Nike sites were built in Fairbanks and Anchorage?ģ) How might new military bases near a city affect the community? What may have changed for Anchorage and Fairbanks to have the bases so close?Ĥ) What effects do you think the Cold War may have had on Alaska and Alaskans?ĭuring the Cold War, Americans called Alaska the 'Guardian of the North' and 'Top Cover for America” because it was the first line of defense. Nike bases were built in rings around areas that needed protection, like military bases and big cities.ġ) Find Alaska on a world map. Nike sites were anti-aircraft missile bases that protected the United States during the Cold War with Russia.

Map 1: Nike-Hercules Missile Sites in Alaska. How do we determine what people and places belong as part of the United States? Is it enough to feel American, even if you are not entitled to all the rights of citizens? To evaluate how military concerns and national defense impact who belongs as part of the United States of America.

To identify contemporary arguments for and against Alaska’s statehood To explain the significance of the Cold War in Alaska’s relationship with the rest of the United States

Activity 3 is intended for 10th grade learners and above. This lesson is intended for middle school learners but can easily be adapted for use by learners of all ages. This lesson was adapted from the Teaching with Historic Places lesson plan “Alaska’s Site Summit: Cold War Defense and its Legacy in the North.” For more resources, view the full lesson plan. In this lesson, students explore one of the impacts of the Cold War on the people of the United States and the conversation about who is an American by examining the historical debate about whether to grant Alaska statehood. IntroductionĬold War History is often focused on military stand offs in foreign countries. Site Summit, looking east at missile launch area under construction Photo from National Register collection, originally U.S.

What is the cold war? Why do we call it that?