Ep 5. The 50s - Eisenhower, the Bomb & the Third World

Oliver Stone's Untold History Of The United States season 1 episode 5, titled The 50s - Eisenhower, the Bomb & the Third World, takes viewers on a journey through the events that occurred during the 1950s, a tumultuous decade that saw the rise of the Cold War and the proliferation of nuclear weapons. The episode focuses on the presidency of Dwight D. Eisenhower, who served as the 34th President of the United States from 1953 to 1961.

The episode begins with a discussion of the ways in which the United States and Soviet Union became involved in the Korean War, which lasted from 1950 to 1953. Eisenhower, a military leader with extensive experience in World War II, became President during the early stages of the war and was instrumental in bringing it to a close. He worked to build a strong defense for the United States, implementing strategic policies to contain Soviet expansion and prevent the spread of communism.

Throughout the episode, Stone highlights the unique challenges faced by Eisenhower during his presidency. The United States was facing economic challenges at home, while also dealing with rising tensions abroad. Eisenhower was particularly concerned about the potential for a nuclear war, and he worked to establish a policy of nuclear deterrence to prevent conflict.

The episode also explores the ways in which the United States attempted to counter the spread of communism in other parts of the world. Eisenhower cooperated with various intelligence agencies to support anti-communist groups in countries like Iran and Guatemala. The CIA, in particular, played a significant role in these efforts, often using covert operations to help topple foreign governments.

Stone also delves into the experiences of individuals who were directly impacted by US foreign policy during the 1950s. One powerful example is Hiroshima survivor Koji Ariyoshi, who describes the devastating impact of the atomic bomb on his hometown. Other segments focus on the experiences of individuals living in countries like Indonesia and Iran, where US intervention had a profound impact on their lives.

Overall, The 50s - Eisenhower, the Bomb & the Third World provides a comprehensive look at the events that shaped the 1950s, including both the political strategies employed by Eisenhower and the human impact of these policies. Viewers gain a deeper understanding of the forces that led to the Cold War, as well as the ways in which US interventionism impacted other countries around the globe.