The Soviet Invasion of Afghanistan

Question 1

What did the USSR do in 1979 and why?

Answer 1

Sent troops into Afghanistan. They wanted to take control after the assassination of the Afghan president.

Question 2

When was the Carter Doctrine introduced?

Answer 2

1980

Question 3

What were the actions President Carter took in the Carter Doctrine? (Give two)

Answer 3

• Threatened to use force if the USSR attempted to take control of the Persian Gulf
• Economic sanctions (No trade with the USSR)
• Set up an alliance with China and Israel to back the Mujahideen.
• Secretly provided weapons and money to the Mujahideen
• Broke off diplomatic relations with the USSR and refused to sign SALT II
• Boycotted 1980 Olympic games in Moscow

Question 4

Why did Carter react so strongly to the soviet invasion of Afghan? (Give two reasons)

Answer 4

• Worried the USSR would get more control in the middle east
• Afghanistan might mean soviet control in Iran
• Iran could block Middle east oil exports which were essential for the USA’s prosperity

Question 5

What was the importance of the Afghan war in relation to SALT II?

Answer 5

America refused to sign SALT II which aimed to diffuse tensions between the US and Soviet Union