The Cold War: Origins, Impact and Legacy—A Guide for GCSE and A-Level History Students

The Cold War was one of the most significant events of the 20th century. It defined global politics for nearly half a century. It wasn’t a traditional war with battles fought on the ground. It was a war of ideologies. Communism versus capitalism played out between the two superpowers of the time: the Soviet Union and the United States. Understanding the Cold War is crucial for GCSE and A-Level history students. It not only shaped the modern world but also serves as a backdrop for many contemporary global issues.

In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the causes, origins, impacts and consequences of the Cold War. By the end, you’ll have a thorough understanding of how this period influenced international relations. It also shaped domestic policies and the global landscape as we know it today.

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