NSC-68 and the Arms Race

1. Study Source 7. According to this source, how serious was the Soviet nuclear threat?      
According to Source 7, the Soviet nuclear threat was quite large and impending. This source made it seem as if the U.S., in its current state of arms, would be unable to defend against a very probably atomic bombing by the Soviets.


2. What measures is Source 7 calling for?     
Source 7 is calling for an increase in the production of atomic bombs, air defenses, air warning systems, and a civilian defense program along with a military defense program.


3. How would you describe the tone of Source 7? Use examples of words and phrases in the text to support your answer.     
The tone of Source 7 is particularly urgent and serious. For example, "...the possibility of a decisive initial attack cannot be excluded." This quote carries with it a warning to the U.S. that they must prepare for a nuclear attack from the Soviets. "Serious blow" and "seriously hamper the ability of the United States" are other examples of phrases in Source 7 where urgency can be detected, as well as seriousness in the matter. This document was basically meant to sternly persuade the U.S. government 

to make significant defensive preparations 

with its urgent and serious tone.

4. Study Source 8. What criticisms are made of Source 7?    
Source 8 claims criticizes that Source 7 is exaggerated in order to manipulate the "mind of the government." This source also claims that Source 7 was successful in this endeavor because Truman tripled the defense budget and significantly increased atomic bomb production.


5. Do you think the author of Source 7 wanted to increase tension and the risk of war? If not, what were his motives?     
I think the author of Source 7 wanted to create more tension against the Soviets so that the U.S. would take the means necessary to defend itself against a Soviet attack. I don't think the author necessarily wanted to increase the risk of war though, it seemed to be more of a way to influence the government so that more defensive measures would be taken.

6. Do the criticisms in Source 8 mean that Source 7 is not a useful historical source? Explain your answer.

No, the criticisms in Source 8 don't mean that Source 7 is not a useful historical source. This is because while Source 7 is exaggerated and not entirely accurate from an objective standpoint, it still shows how the United States reacted to the advancement of the Soviet Union, and provides as a good explanation for historians as to why the United States did what it did in response to the Soviets joining the nuclear power race.