The Fall of the Berlin Wall and USSR
Investigate the events of 1989-1991, including the fall of the Berlin Wall and the dissolution of the Soviet Union.
Key Questions
- Explain why the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989 was so unexpected.
- Analyze how the 'Solidarity' movement in Poland triggered a chain reaction across Eastern Europe.
- Assess whether Reagan's military spending or Gorbachev's reforms were more responsible for the Soviet collapse.
Common Core State Standards
Suggested Methodologies
Ready to teach this topic?
Generate a complete, classroom-ready active learning mission in seconds.
More in The Cold War World
Ideological Roots of the Cold War
Explore the fundamental differences between capitalism/democracy and communism/totalitarianism.
3 methodologies
Containment and Early Cold War Policies
Examine the Truman Doctrine, Marshall Plan, and the policy of containment.
3 methodologies
Divided Germany and the Berlin Crisis
Investigate the division of Germany, the Berlin Airlift, and the construction of the Berlin Wall.
3 methodologies
NATO vs. Warsaw Pact
Examine the formation and purpose of the two major military alliances of the Cold War.
3 methodologies
The Chinese Communist Revolution
Study the Chinese Civil War, Mao Zedong's victory, and the establishment of the PRC.
3 methodologies