The Evolution of American Preventive War Policy Toward the Soviet Union (1945-1952) A Historical Study

Abstract

    The core idea was that the United States should not sit idly by and allow an adversarial power like the Soviet Union to amass a massive nuclear arsenal. Instead, it should seriously consider a more active and assertive policy. Naturally, although this idea had appeal among American planners, it also received strong support from President Truman. As concerns grew over allowing the Soviets to develop their own nuclear forces, Washington explored potential courses of action to prevent this. Among these options were planning for a preventive war against the Soviet Union and expanding the American nuclear stockpile.