[National Security Council]

NSC 68: United States Objectives and Programs for National Security

(April 14, 1950)

A Report to the President
Pursuant to the President's Directive
of January 31, 1950

TOP SECRET

[Washington,] April 7, 1950

Contents

Terms of Reference

Analysis

I. Background of the Present World Crisis

II. The Fundamental Purpose of the United States

III. The Fundamental Design of the Kremlin

IV. The Underlying Conflict in the Realm of Ideas and Values Between the U.S. Purpose and the Kremlin Design

  1. Nature of the Conflict
  2. Objectives
  3. Means

V. Soviet Intentions and Capabilities--Actual and Potential

VI. U.S. Intentions and Capabilities--Actual and Potential

VII. Present Risks

VIII. Atomic Armaments

IX. Possible Courses of Action

Conclusions

Recommendations