What was a major impact of the Cold War on American foreign policy?

The establishment of military alliances was a significant impact of the Cold War on American foreign policy. During this period, the United States sought to counter the influence of the Soviet Union and communism globally. This prompted the formation of key military alliances such as NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization) in 1949, which included Western European nations, Canada, and the United States itself. The principle of collective defense enshrined in NATO meant that an attack on one member would be regarded as an attack on all, significantly strengthening Western military unity against perceived Soviet aggression.

Additionally, the U.S. also developed other alliances, such as SEATO (Southeast Asia Treaty Organization) and CENTO (Central Treaty Organization), to secure its interests and contain communism in different regions. This focus on military partnerships was a defining characteristic of U.S. foreign policy throughout the Cold War, reflecting the belief in a need for international cooperation against a common threat. The resulting network of alliances not only shaped military strategy but also influenced diplomatic relations and global power dynamics during this era.