Cold War America

Definition

Cold War America refers to the period between 1947 and 1991 when there was intense rivalry between the United States (and its allies) and the Soviet Union (and its allies). It was characterized by ideological conflicts, military build-up, proxy wars, espionage activities, nuclear arms race, space race, and diplomatic negotiations.

Related terms

Containment policy: A strategy adopted by U.S. policymakers during the Cold War aimed at preventing the spread of communism beyond countries already under Soviet influence.

Arms race: A competition between nations to develop and acquire superior military weapons, especially nuclear weapons, as a means of deterrence or defense.

Détente: A period of relaxation of tensions between the United States and the Soviet Union during the Cold War. It involved diplomatic negotiations, arms control agreements, and cultural exchanges.