The Cold War

The Cold War and its impact on Southern Africa

The Cold War

After WWII, the USA and USSR became rival superpowers — capitalism vs communism. They competed through proxy wars, arms race and space race. The Cold War deeply affected Southern Africa, as both sides supported different groups.

Example

Cold War in Southern Africa

• USA/West: supported apartheid SA as anti-communist ally • USSR/Cuba: supported ANC, liberation movements • Angola Civil War: SA and USA vs Angola government and Cuba • SA government used 'communist threat' to justify apartheid Cold War ended: 1989 (Berlin Wall falls), 1991 (USSR collapses)

Note

Remember

The Cold War delayed freedom in Southern Africa. When it ended, pressure on SA increased, helping end apartheid. Cuba's role in Angola (Battle of Cuito Cuanavale, 1988) helped change the regional power balance.

Key Vocabulary

Cold WarRivalry between USA and USSR without direct conflict

CapitalismEconomic system based on private ownership and profit

CommunismSystem where the state controls the economy

Proxy warWar where superpowers support opposing sides

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Cold War

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