Cold War (1945–91)

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Student Question

What are some lingering effects of the Cold War?

Quick answer:

The lingering effects of the Cold War are most evident in the strained relations between the United States and communist or formerly communist countries. During the Cold War, the US opposed the Soviet Union and other communist nations, leading to ongoing tensions. Today, the US maintains poor relations with Cuba and North Korea, while mutual suspicion persists with China. Additionally, Russia often opposes US actions globally, such as in Syria and Iran, reflecting Cold War legacies.

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The most obvious lingering effects of the Cold War can be seen in the tense relations between the United States and many countries that are or were communist.

During the Cold War, the US was in conflict with the Soviet Union and other communist countries.  Relations between the US and those countries are often problematic even today.  The US has very poor relations with two countries, Cuba and North Korea, that are still communist.  China and the US are still very suspicious of one another.  Russia continues to block American actions worldwide, as in the cases of Syria and Iran today.  These tense relations can all be seen as lingering effects of the Cold War.

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