Term

Cold War in the “Third World”

Definition

U.S. and USSR competed for influence in newly independent states (Africa, Asia, Latin America). Intelligence agencies engaged in covert support/defeat of local movements; often used proxy wars.Created long‑lasting anti‑U.S. sentiment and regional instability.

Term

Nationalism / Communism

Definition

Anti‑colonial movements often framed as communist by U.S. analysts. Intelligence misread nationalist sentiment as Marxist threat. Justified covert support for anti‑nationalist regimes (Diem, Pinochet).

Term

Domino Theory

Definition

The idea that one country’s shift to communism would cause a chain reaction. Used to argue for U.S. intervention in Vietnam, Chile, Indonesia. Led to extensive U.S. military and covert involvement.