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Explain the origins of Cold War competition between the U.S. and the Soviet Union.(1 point) Responses Cold War competition began between the U.S. and the Soviet Union right after the end of the Vietnam War, once the U.S. had retreated from the country. Cold War competition began between the U.S. and the Soviet Union right after the end of the Vietnam War, once the U.S. had retreated from the country. Cold War competition began between the U.S. and the Soviet Union right at the start of World War II, when its alliance unraveled. Cold War competition began between the U.S. and the Soviet Union right at the start of World War II, when its alliance unraveled. Cold War competition began between the U.S. and the Soviet Union right after the end of World War II, when its alliance unraveled. Cold War competition began between the U.S. and the Soviet Union right after the end of World War II, when its alliance unraveled. Cold War competition began between the U.S. and the Soviet Union right at the beginning of the Korean War, when its alliance unraveled.

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The origins of Cold War competition between the U.S. and the Soviet Union can be traced back to the end of World War II, when the wartime alliance between the two nations began to unravel. While they had collaborated against the Axis powers during the war, significant ideological differences and mutual suspicions emerged once the common enemy was defeated.

  1. Ideological Differences: The U.S. represented capitalist democracy, whereas the Soviet Union embodied communism and a one-party state. These opposing ideologies created a fundamental divide in their views on governance, economic systems, and individual liberties.

  2. Post-War Power Dynamics: After WWII, the power vacuum left in Europe and Asia led to heightened competition for influence. The U.S. sought to promote democracy and prevent the spread of communism, while the Soviet Union aimed to expand its sphere of influence in Eastern Europe and beyond.

  3. Nuclear Arms Race: The development and subsequent use of atomic weapons by the U.S. during the war created a climate of fear and competition. The Soviet Union, seeking security and status, accelerated its own nuclear weapons program, which contributed to an arms buildup and heightened tensions.

  4. Conflicts of Interest: As new nations emerged post-war, both superpowers sought to assert their influence over these countries. Events such as the Berlin Blockade (1948-49) and the Greek Civil War (1946-1949) exemplified their competing interests and further deepened their rivalry.

In summary, the Cold War competition originated from the unraveling of the alliance at the end of World War II, driven by ideological differences, the shifting power landscape, and mutual distrust leading to a prolonged period of geopolitical tension.