What were the main causes of the Cold War?

The main causes of the Cold War can be traced back to a combination of political, ideological, and strategic differences between the United States and the Soviet Union. Firstly, the ideological clash between capitalism and communism played a crucial role. The United States championed democracy, individual freedoms, and free-market capitalism, while the Soviet Union embraced communist ideology with an emphasis on collective ownership and centralized planning. Secondly, the geopolitical competition and rivalries between the two superpowers intensified as they sought to expand and exert influence over other countries, leading to a series of proxy wars and conflicts. Additionally, the development and proliferation of nuclear weapons, along with the arms race, raised tensions and created a climate of fear and mistrust. Lastly, mutual suspicions, misunderstandings, and a lack of effective communication between the two powers further fueled the Cold War.

This mind map was published on 16 August 2023 and has been viewed 56 times.