The primary participants in the Cold War were the United States and the Soviet Union, along with their respective allies. This geopolitical tension, which emerged after World War II, was characterized by ideological differences, with the U.S. promoting capitalism and democracy, while the Soviet Union advocated for communism. The Cold War led to proxy wars, an arms race, and a series of conflicts, including the Korean War and the Vietnam War. Additionally, the period saw significant developments like the formation of NATO and the Warsaw Pact, as well as political, social, and economic competition that shaped global relations throughout the latter half of the 20th century.