Final answer:
The question addresses the major powers of the early 21st century, which are China, Russia, and the United States. These countries have different governance systems, economic models, and geopolitical strategies, reflecting their unique positions on the global stage post-Cold War.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question pertains to the major global powers as of the early 21st century and seeks a comparison among them. In the contemporary period, the world has witnessed the rise and fall of numerous powers, and by the year 2000, this dynamic had shaped a world in which many countries had developed robust economies and middle classes, while others still struggled with poverty and underdevelopment. Major global players have varied throughout history, and the period specified in the question refers to the post-Cold War era where three countries stood out as being especially dominant in terms of political and economic influence.
Chart Comparing the Three Countries
United States: Emerged from World War II relatively unscathed, with its infrastructure intact and a strong economy, which allowed it to become one of the superpowers.
Russia (formerly the Soviet Union): Although it suffered heavy casualties and destruction during World War II, it maintained its large size and significant population, enabling it to retain superpower status, albeit in decline following the end of the Cold War.
China: In the later 20th century, China notably began to assert itself as a global economic power, driven by significant economic reforms and population size.
Key differences among these nations include their governance systems, economic models, and geopolitical strategies. The United States is characterized by its democratic governance and capitalist economy, whereas China and Russia are known for more centralized governance, with China embracing a socialist market economy and Russia transitioning from command to market-based approaches post-Cold War. The geopolitical tensions between them span a wide array of issues, from military might to economic competition and ideological influence.