How Wars Changed America

The United States is one of the countries that has been highly affected by the involvement of major wars, including the 1st and the 2nd World Wars and the rise of the Cold War. After making incredible contributions during the 1st World War, African Americans focused on making the United States’ democracy a reality. A new generation of blacks, infused with a determined political consciousness and knowledge, would start fighting for civil rights while laying the foundation for other movements, like feminists’ movement. For this reason, the war opened a remarkable opportunity for African Americans to claim their civil rights, both in and outside the army. The inevitable change of fighting for equality has played a positive role in America, ensuring everyone attains the deserved respect and decency while celebrating individual differences.

Following the 2nd World War, the United States became one of the dominant superpowers, shifting its focus from traditional isolationism to heightened international involvement. America became an international influence in technological, cultural, economic, military, and political affairs. The United States created the North Atlantic Treaty Organization in 1949 to respond to the Soviet Union’s threat of Europe Expansion. Today, the organization remains effective in safeguarding the security and independence of its members using both military and political approaches. Therefore, the United States’ emergence as a superpower changed the nation’s focus on international affairs.

The United States focused on promoting the democracy of other countries during the Cold War. The United States acknowledged how democracy played an essential role in resolving conflicts peacefully, respecting human dignity, and securing the community. Commentators, policymakers, and scholars welcomed the idea that democratization was becoming the next mission of America. Therefore, the United States has continuously been shaped by wars, starting from redefining the position of American citizens after the 1st world war to promoting the spread of democracy in other countries after the Cold War.