1. THE KOREAN WAR © 2011 Clairmont Press

2. KOREAN WAR  The Korean War was fought from 1950 to 1953.  A military conflict between North and South Korea  US supported the South  China and Soviet Union supported the North  Communism vs. Capitalism  The Korean Peninsula was divided along the 38 th parallel after Japan was defeated in World War II  In 1948, Korea failed to hold open and free elections.  This deepened the divide between the Soviet occupied North and the US occupied South.  The North established a Communist government.

3. KOREAN WAR  The South established a democratic and capitalist government.  The North Koreans invaded the South and the US helped repel the invasion.   The US became heavily involved militarily and helped drive the Communists out of South Korea. (map)map  An Armistice was signed and the 38 th parallel became known as the demilitarized zone.  The conflict technically never ended but only a ceasefire was signed..  The 38 th parallel remains one of the most heavily fortified areas in the world.

4. U.S. AND U.S.S.R. INVOLVEMENT U.S.  Occupied the South after World War II  Instituted capitalism and democracy  Gave billions in aid and signed trade agreements with the South  Supported the South militarily when the North invaded.  Successfully thwarted the communist spread into the entire peninsula. U.S.S.R.  Occupied the North after World War II  Helped spread the ideals of communism  With support from the Chinese  Gave billions in military aid and support to the North Koreans.  Supported the Chinese efforts in fighting the war.  Did not send troops to fight the war; did send military weaponry.