IndexIntroductionThe Impact of Decrees and Doctrine During the Cold WarThe New Look and Flexible Response PoliciesIntroductionThe United States Army is continually influenced by several factors. Some of these factors include the political parties that are in the majority at the time, the beliefs of the current President of the United States, the various world leaders in office, the ever-changing and advancing technology, and the ideas and beliefs that are introduced i media as well as the response of the American people. The strongest fears often push the military into action, as can be clearly seen throughout history and in today's news. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay The Cold War was influenced enormously by the views of leaders after World War II and the fears of the incumbent administration in both America and the Soviet Union. The constant struggle to become the most powerful military in the world often shapes the military of the United States of America as well. This paper will discuss the impacts on the mission and structure of the U.S. Army as a result of decrees and doctrines during the Cold War, as well as the impact of technological advances. Impact of Decrees and Doctrines During the Cold War The central idea behind many of the decrees and doctrines during the Cold War was the curve of communism and the protection of the American people. The greatest concern among U.S. policymakers was the idea that the Soviet military's capabilities would surpass those of the United States. The intentions of the Soviet Union were unknown and frightened not only the politicians and the president of the time, but also the American people in general. Rather than communicate openly with potential threats, American politicians chose to pass laws and policies that would instead advance the nation's military and armaments. This, in turn, increased the amount of money spent on the military. As time passed and the Cold War developed and intensified, the United States government authorized increased spending on various military materials and other defense-related programs. Funds were allocated to many areas of defense, including nuclear weapons stockpiles, nuclear weapons testing, both offensive and defensive missile systems, naval rearmament, intelligence, command and control, and covert operations (Merrill , 2006). During the Cold War, many policies came true. The goal of these policies was to reduce the perceived threat of communism in the eyes of the administration and the public, as well as the fear of being overtaken by a more powerful military. In essence, the administration has pushed for the military to grow at an exponential rate in manpower, technology, and capabilities. The Central Intelligence Agency was also created to provide greater security through the National Security Act of 1947. During this time the United States was essentially attempting to purchase the best security system possible by all means and at all costs. Through the push within the various policies passed and doctrines adopted and imposed not only on the military and the American people, but also on the allies of the United States, the military was forced to enter a new era. With the rapid growth of armies not only in the United States, but also in the Soviet Union, the threat to populations around the world grew. The threat of nuclear war was terrifying to many, as was the threat of communism to the American people and the threat of capitalism to the people of Eastern Europe and the Union.