What conflict involved China, the Soviet Union, and the United States during the late 1950s through early 1970s?

• A. The Vietnam War
• B. The Korean War
• C. The Cold War
• D. The Sino-Soviet Split

Answer: (C)

The correct answer highlights the broader geopolitical tensions known as the Cold War, which profoundly influenced international relations and conflicts during the late 1950s through early 1970s. This period was characterized by a struggle between the communist bloc, led by the Soviet Union, and the Western powers, primarily the United States, over ideological, political, and military influence around the world, including in East Asia.

During this time, China's role evolved significantly, transitioning from an ally of the Soviet Union to becoming increasingly independent and at times adversarial, particularly during the Sino-Soviet Split. The Vietnam War, while a specific conflict involving direct military engagement, was heavily influenced by the dynamics of the Cold War, as it was a battleground for proxy conflicts where the Soviet Union and China supported North Vietnam, while the U.S. supported South Vietnam. Similarly, the Korean War, occurring earlier in the 1950s, was another direct manifestation of the Cold War, but it falls outside the specified time frame of late 1950s through early 1970s.

In summary, the Cold War encompasses a wide range of conflicts and geopolitical strategies, including both the Vietnam War and the Korean War, making it the overarching context that involves China, the Soviet