3 Following World War II, the United States and the Soviet Union were hesitant to
become involved in direct military conflict.
This was mainly because of the
threat of China to both nations
pressure from Germany and Japan
potential for globat nuclear destruction
mutual dependence on Middle East petroleum

The potential for global nuclear destruction shaped the post-World War II era, as both the United States and the Soviet Union were equipped with nuclear arsenals that could devastate the planet many times over. This grim reality instigated a precarious balance known as Mutually Assured Destruction (MAD), where neither side would initiate conflict for fear of total annihilation, making the Cold War a standoff rather than an outright war.

In addition to the dread of nuclear warfare, this period saw both superpowers engage in proxy wars and espionage rather than direct confrontation. By backing opposing sides in conflicts around the globe, such as in Korea and Vietnam, they could pursue their interests while avoiding direct military engagement. This dance of diplomacy and indirect conflict marked the Cold War’s complicated and often tense geopolitical landscape!