The Cold War and its Impact on the World

The Cold War was not just a rivalry between two superpowers — it shaped the entire world. From proxy wars in Asia, Africa, and Latin America to the nuclear threat that hung over every nation, the Cold War's impact was global and enduring. This final lesson draws together the themes of the course and evaluates the lasting legacy of the conflict.

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The Cold War as a Global Conflict

Although the USA and the Soviet Union never fought each other directly, they fought proxy wars — conflicts in which they supported opposing sides in other countries.

Proxy War	Date	US-Backed Side	Soviet-Backed Side
Korean War	1950–1953	South Korea	North Korea (also backed by China)
Vietnam War	1955–1975	South Vietnam	North Vietnam (Viet Cong)
Angola Civil War	1975–2002	UNITA / South Africa	MPLA / Cuba
Soviet-Afghan War	1979–1989	Mujahideen	Afghan communist government
Nicaragua	1979–1990	Contras	Sandinista government