First, explain how the Cold War began and why relations between the United States and the Soviet Union deteriorated after 1945.
Second, examine three events during this time and explain why they are important to the Cold War.
Third, discuss how the Cold War ended. Who were the principal actors in the 1980s that brought this long conflict to an end?
Finally, do you see the actions of the United States or the Soviet Union as being the decisive factor in bringing the Cold War to a close?