How did the rise of the Soviet Union impact global politics during the 20th century?

The rise of the Soviet Union had a profound impact on global politics during the 20th century, reshaping the international landscape and influencing the course of events in significant ways.

Communism and the Cold War

The emergence of the Soviet Union as a communist superpower posed a direct challenge to the capitalist Western world, leading to the onset of the Cold War. This ideological rivalry between the USSR and the United States shaped global power dynamics and influenced the formation of alliances.

Geopolitical Shifts

The Soviet Union's expansionist policies in Eastern Europe, along with the establishment of the Eastern Bloc, altered the geopolitical balance of power and created tensions with the Western world. The division of Europe by the Iron Curtain symbolized the growing rift between the two blocs.

Nuclear Arms Race and Proxy Wars

The Soviet Union's development of nuclear weapons escalated the arms race with the United States, heightening global tensions and the threat of nuclear war. Proxy wars in regions like Korea and Vietnam became battlegrounds for the superpower rivalry, shaping conflicts and alliances.

Legacy in Diplomacy and World History

The Soviet Union's influence on global politics during the 20th century left a lasting legacy in diplomacy, international relations, and world history. Despite its eventual collapse in 1991, the USSR's rise continues to be a key chapter in the annals of modern geopolitics.