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- Jimmy Carter deserves some credit for winning the Cold War (newsbreak.com)
Despite serving as a Navy submarine officer, President Jimmy Carter faced criticism for perceived weakness in national security. However, his administration played a significant role in countering the Soviet Union and rising extremism in the Middle East.
Carter inherited a weakened US military and a struggling economy. Despite his initial pledge to reduce defense spending, he oversaw a significant buildup, including new tanks, planes, and pay increases for military personnel. He also canceled certain controversial projects, such as the neutron bomb.
Concerned about Soviet expansion in Afghanistan, Carter established the “Carter Doctrine,” declaring the Persian Gulf region vital to US interests. He created the Rapid Deployment Force to respond to global crises, though its effectiveness was questioned.
Carter sought arms control through the SALT II treaty, but the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan halted its ratification. He also supported the deployment of Pershing II missiles in Europe to counter Soviet missiles in Eastern Europe.
Despite criticism for emphasizing human rights, Carter’s policies supported dissident movements in Poland and brokered peace between Israel and Egypt, weakening Soviet influence in the Middle East.
Carter’s reputation was tarnished by the 444-day hostage crisis in Iran. His inability to secure their release contributed to his defeat in the 1980 election by Ronald Reagan, who projected strength and confrontation with the Soviets.
While the Soviet Union’s collapse was primarily due to its economic decline, Carter played a role in confronting the Soviet threat, continuing a tradition of US opposition to Soviet expansionism.
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- Jimmy Carter deserves some credit for winning the Cold War (newsbreak.com)