What was a primary cause of tension during the Cold War?

The primary cause of tension during the Cold War was rooted in the geopolitical rivalry between the United States and the Soviet Union, which emerged after World War II. This rivalry was characterized by deep ideological differences, with the U.S. advocating for capitalism and democracy, while the Soviet Union promoted communism and a centralized economy. The competition between these two superpowers led to various forms of confrontation, including military alliances, nuclear arms races, and proxy wars around the globe, as each sought to expand its influence and promote its political system.

The geopolitical context defined this era, as both nations exerted their power not only in Europe but also in regions such as Asia, Africa, and Latin America. This struggle significantly shaped international relations and created an environment of suspicion, conflict, and events like the Cuban Missile Crisis, which highlighted the ever-present risk of nuclear war stemming from their rivalry.

While disagreements over economic policies and struggles for territorial control played roles in the broader context of international relations, they were often manifestations of the underlying geopolitical competition between the two superpowers, making it the primary cause of tension during this period. The rise of global trade agreements, while important in different historical contexts, was less relevant to the dynamics of the Cold War itself.