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Questions and Answers
What was the main reason for Iraq's invasion of Kuwait in August 1990?
What was the main reason for Iraq's invasion of Kuwait in August 1990?
What was the response of the United States and the UN Security Council to Iraq's invasion of Kuwait?
What was the response of the United States and the UN Security Council to Iraq's invasion of Kuwait?
What was the name of the intensive bombing campaign against strategic Iraqi locations led by a United States-led coalition of 34 nations?
What was the name of the intensive bombing campaign against strategic Iraqi locations led by a United States-led coalition of 34 nations?
What action did Iraqi dictator Saddam Hussein take at the end of February 1991?
What action did Iraqi dictator Saddam Hussein take at the end of February 1991?
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What was the primary concern of US officials regarding Iraq's invasion of Kuwait?
What was the primary concern of US officials regarding Iraq's invasion of Kuwait?
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What was the immediate response of the United States and the United Nations Security Council to Iraq's invasion of Kuwait?
What was the immediate response of the United States and the United Nations Security Council to Iraq's invasion of Kuwait?
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What was the purpose of Operation Desert Shield?
What was the purpose of Operation Desert Shield?
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Which military leaders orchestrated the US-led attack during Operation Desert Storm?
Which military leaders orchestrated the US-led attack during Operation Desert Storm?
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What type of missiles did Iraq launch at civilian and military targets in Saudi Arabia and Israel during the Gulf War?
What type of missiles did Iraq launch at civilian and military targets in Saudi Arabia and Israel during the Gulf War?
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What was the significance of the Gulf War in terms of American conflict history?
What was the significance of the Gulf War in terms of American conflict history?
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What was the outcome of the four-day ground campaign during the Gulf War?
What was the outcome of the four-day ground campaign during the Gulf War?
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Why was Saddam Hussein allowed to remain in power in Iraq after the Gulf War?
Why was Saddam Hussein allowed to remain in power in Iraq after the Gulf War?
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What did the Gulf War signal about US foreign policy towards the Middle East at the end of the twentieth century?
What did the Gulf War signal about US foreign policy towards the Middle East at the end of the twentieth century?
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Study Notes
Iraq's Invasion of Kuwait
- Iraq invaded Kuwait in August 1990, primarily to gain control over Kuwait's oil reserves and to resolve debt issues from the Iran-Iraq War.
- The United States and the UN Security Council condemned the invasion, leading to economic sanctions against Iraq and a build-up of military forces in the Gulf region.
United States and UN Response
- A coalition of 34 nations, led by the United States, organized to respond, marking a clear international stance against Iraq's aggression.
- Operation Desert Shield was initiated to protect Saudi Arabia and prevent further Iraqi expansion.
Operation Desert Storm
- The intensive bombing campaign against Iraq, targeting strategic locations, was called Operation Desert Storm.
- Military leaders like General Norman Schwarzkopf led the U.S. forces during this operation.
Actions Taken by Saddam Hussein
- At the end of February 1991, as coalition forces advanced, Saddam Hussein ordered the retreat of Iraqi forces from Kuwait.
US Concerns and Immediate Responses
- US officials were primarily concerned about the potential threat Iraq could pose to other countries in the Gulf region and the global oil supply.
- The immediate response involved resolutions for military action and deployment of troops to the area, culminating in a coalition military operation.
Purpose of Operations
- Operation Desert Shield was aimed at deterring further Iraqi aggression and securing oil supplies in the region.
Missile Attacks
- Iraq launched Scud missiles at civilian and military targets in Saudi Arabia and Israel during the Gulf War, creating widespread fear and escalating regional tensions.
Significance of the Gulf War
- The Gulf War marked a pivotal moment in American conflict history, showcasing the effectiveness of coalition warfare and high-tech military capabilities.
Ground Campaign Outcome
- The four-day ground campaign led to the swift liberation of Kuwait, resulting in a decisive victory for coalition forces.
Saddam Hussein's Aftermath
- Despite the defeat, Saddam Hussein remained in power to maintain regional stability and prevent further turmoil, leading to a prolonged conflict with the United States.
US Foreign Policy Implications
- The Gulf War signaled a tougher stance in US foreign policy toward the Middle East, emphasizing a commitment to protect allies and secure vital interests in the region as the 20th century ended.
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Description
Test your knowledge of the events leading up to and during the Gulf War in 1990-1991. Learn about the United States-led coalition's response to Iraq's invasion of Kuwait and the subsequent military actions.
