The Cold War era was characterized by the ideological battle between capitalism, led by the United States, and communism, spearheaded by the Soviet Union. This period, beginning shortly after World War II, was marked by political tension, military conflicts, and an arms race, including the development of nuclear weapons. The competition extended beyond military might into cultural, economic, and technological spheres, as both superpowers sought to expand their influence globally. The Cold War influenced foreign policies, leading to proxy wars, such as in Korea and Vietnam, while fostering a climate of suspicion and rivalry that defined international relations for decades.