The tensions in the early post-war period between the U.S. and the Soviet Union over their respective influence in Europe, Asia, and elsewhere in the world.
The impact of the containment policy in Europe, where a peaceful resolution was found, and in Asia, where both superpowers became embroiled in a war.
The recovery of west European countries and Japan in the post-war period with the help of American aid.
The varying political experiences of the west European countries in the post-war decades.
The new internationalism and efforts to regulate and stabilize the world economy.
The earliest efforts at European integration and the founding of the European Community and the Common Market.
The thaw initiated by Khrushchev and his subsequent fall from power.
Eastern European experiences as the Soviets consolidated their control.
