The main ideological conflict during the Cold War was between capitalism, represented by the United States and its allies, and communism, led by the Soviet Union. This ideological struggle influenced global politics, economies, and societies, creating a bipolar world. The U.S. promoted democratic governance and free-market economies, whereas the Soviet Union championed state control and a classless society. This conflict manifested through proxy wars, arms races, and political tensions, shaping international relations for decades and ultimately leading to the dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991, marking a significant victory for capitalist ideologies.