This course examines the history of armed conflict during the Cold War and the influence of ideology and technology on war in the second half of the 20th century. The course proceeds chronologically beginning with an introduction to the ideologies and alliances of the US and USSR, looking at the rise of non-aligned states and competing ideologies in the developing world, and first battles of the Cold War. It traces how the goals and objectives of the superpowers collided with local interests resulting in unexpected results and frustration. Cadets will study how technology became both a constraining and enabling factor in war during the period. They will be able to understand and appreciate the context of how warfare evolved during this period and how the legacies of Cold War conflicts shape the contemporary operating environment.
