During the period of the Cold War, which lasted roughly from the end of World War II in 1945 until the dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991, the United States and the Soviet Union had conflicting ideological and geopolitical goals. While they did share some common interests, their differences were significant and often led to tension and rivalry. Here are some of the key points they both wanted:
1. Security and Influence:
Both the United States and the Soviet Union wanted to ensure their security and protect their national interests. They aimed to establish spheres of influence around the world to safeguard their respective political systems and prevent the expansion of the opposing ideology.
2. Global Dominance:
Both superpowers sought to be seen as global superpowers with the ability to shape international affairs according to their interests. They aimed to exert influence over other countries and regions to establish themselves as dominant players on the world stage.
3. Economic Development:
Both the United States and the Soviet Union aimed to promote economic development and technological progress within their own spheres of influence. They wanted to demonstrate the superiority of their respective economic systems – capitalism in the case of the U.S. and socialism/communism in the case of the Soviet Union.
4. Ideological Supremacy:
Both superpowers believed in the superiority of their respective ideologies – democracy and capitalism for the United States, and Marxism-Leninism for the Soviet Union. They aimed to spread their ideology and influence globally to win over other countries to their side.
5. Security Alliances:
Both countries sought to form alliances and establish military bases in various parts of the world to enhance their strategic position and counterbalance the other superpower's influence. This often led to proxy conflicts in regions where their interests clashed.
6. Space Exploration:
Both superpowers were engaged in the Space Race, aiming to demonstrate technological and scientific superiority through achievements in space exploration. This included the race to put the first human on the moon.
While there were some shared goals, it's crucial to note that the Cold War was primarily characterized by intense rivalry, mutual distrust, and ideological conflict. The United States and the Soviet Union were engaged in a global struggle for influence and supremacy, leading to various confrontations, proxy wars, and arms race. Despite occasional cooperation (such as during World War II), the fundamental differences between their political systems and goals ultimately defined their relationship during the Cold War.