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Soviet Influence Containment

Definition

This refers to a US foreign policy strategy during the Cold War aimed at stopping the spread of communism by creating alliances and helping weak countries resist Soviet advances.

Analogy

Think of this as a gardener trying to prevent weeds (in this case, communism) from spreading into his garden (the world). He might build fences (alliances) or use weed killer (economic/military aid) on areas where weeds are starting to grow.

Related terms

Truman Doctrine: Like a gardener's manifesto stating he'll do whatever it takes to stop weeds from spreading. It was an American policy promising to aid nations threatened by Soviet expansionism.

Marshall Plan: This can be compared with providing high-quality fertilizers and seeds (financial aid) to other gardens (European countries) so they can resist weed growth. It was an American initiative giving over $12 billion in economic assistance to help rebuild Western European economies after WWII.

Domino Theory: The idea that if one country falls under communist influence or control, its neighboring countries will follow - like dominos falling in line.