Cold war

• Mechanisms of power:
• Mechanisms of power:

  • Military - nuclear weapons, military bases in strategic locations (Cuba, Turkey and Greece)
• Mechanisms of power:

  • Cultural - Hollywood making pro capitalism movies (1950s). 1980 Olympics were boycotted by the US as was in Russia. USSR retaliated and boycotted 1984 olympics in LA
• Mechanisms of power:

  • Politcial - USA was capitalist and made allies surrounding USSR. USSR tried to spread communsim - SE Asia. Also seen in Space Race
• Mechanisms of power:

  • Economic - US strengthend Western Europe throug hthe Marshall plan which reduced communism spreading. Truman doctorine - support for democracies against Authotarian threats. USSR installed communsim in satelite states
• Population:

  • USA (1989) = 287 million
  • USSR (1991) = 291 million
• Resources:

  • USA = self sufficent in most resources but net importer of oil
  • USSR = self sufficient in most resources and also net exporter of oil
• Economic system:

  • USA = capitalism and free market economy + global TNC(s)
  • USSR = Socialist, centrally planned economy. Most businesses state owned
• Allies:

  • USA = western Europe via NATO. Strong economic ties w/ Japan and South Korea
  • USSR = Warsaw pact countires. Allies with Cuba
• Military power:

  • USA = world's largest Navy + airforce with bases surrounding USSR. Extensive intelligence with CIA and nuclear capability
  • USSR = very large army but outdated Navy + Airforce. Strong intelligence with KGB. Troops stationed in Eastern Europe
• Cultural influence:

  • USA = Film, radio, television and music industry to convey position view on consumerism and democracy
  • USSR = exported a "high" culture message focused on ballet, classical music and arts. Lots of censorship
• Political system:

  • USA = democracy with free elections every 4 years
  • USSR = single party state with no free elections