What phenomenon characterized the Cold War era?

The Cold War era was primarily defined by a tense political and military rivalry between the United States and its allies versus the Soviet Union and its satellite states. This rivalry manifested in various ways, including an arms race, ideological conflicts, and proxy wars in different regions around the world. The opposing ideologies of capitalism and communism created significant tension, leading to events such as the Cuban Missile Crisis and the Korean War, which were rooted in the conflict between these two superpowers.

During this time, both sides sought to expand their influence globally, often leading to direct confrontations in various regions, such as Vietnam and Afghanistan. This rivalry not only dominated international relations but also affected domestic policies within the countries involved, as they mobilized resources for military preparedness and engaged in extensive propaganda efforts.

The other options do not capture the essence of this era as effectively. While there were instances of cooperation among nations, these moments often occurred amidst the overarching conflict. Global economic collapse did occur at points in history but is not a defining characteristic of the entire Cold War period. Additionally, the decolonization process in Africa and Asia was influenced by the Cold War dynamics, but it is not representative of the primary phenomenon of tension and rivalry that characterized this time.