AP World History: Modern

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Korean War

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AP World History: Modern

Definition

The Korean War was a military conflict between North Korea (supported by China and Russia) and South Korea (supported by UN forces primarily from the United States). It took place from 1950-1953.

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Historical Context

The Korean War began on June 25, 1950, when North Korea, supported by the Soviet Union and China, invaded South Korea, which was backed by the United States and other United Nations members. This conflict emerged in the context of the Cold War, a period of geopolitical tension between the capitalist West and communist East following World War II. Key figures included leaders like U.S. President Harry S. Truman and North Korean leader Kim Il-sung.

Historical Significance

The Korean War significantly impacted the Cold War dynamics, embedding the practice of proxy wars between superpowers without direct confrontation. It reinforced the division of Korea into two separate states with distinct political systems: communist North Korea and capitalist South Korea. The war also set a precedent for U.S. involvement in Asia, leading to future engagements such as the Vietnam War and establishing a long-term American military presence in South Korea.

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