Assess the impact of Cold War developments on two non-European new states.

The Cold War, which lasted roughly from the end of World War II in 1945 to the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991, had a profound impact on global geopolitics. The competition between the United States and the Soviet Union influenced the political, economic, and social dynamics of many countries, including newly independent states. Here, I'll assess the impact on two non-European new states: India and Vietnam.

1. India:

• Non-Aligned Movement: India, led by Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru, pursued a policy of non-alignment during the Cold War. This meant that India did not align itself with either the Western or Eastern blocs. This policy allowed India to maintain its independence and pursue its own economic and political interests.
• Economic Assistance: Both the United States and the Soviet Union sought to gain influence in India by providing economic assistance. India received aid from both sides, but it was more substantial from the Soviet Union, which contributed to the development of infrastructure and industries in the country.
• Nuclear Program: The Cold War context influenced India's decision to develop nuclear weapons. The fear of being caught in the crossfire between the superpowers and the desire for strategic autonomy motivated India to establish a nuclear program, culminating in its first nuclear test in 1974.

2. Vietnam:

• Proxy War: Vietnam became a focal point of the Cold War as the United States supported South Vietnam against the communist North, which was backed by the Soviet Union and China. The Vietnam War (1955-1975) was a major conflict during this period, and the division of Vietnam highlighted the ideological struggle between the superpowers.
• Domino Theory: The U.S. was concerned about the spread of communism in Southeast Asia, and the "domino theory" influenced its decision to intervene in Vietnam. The fear was that if one country fell to communism, neighboring countries would follow suit. This rationale led to extensive U.S. involvement in the region.
• Reunification and Soviet Influence: The Vietnam War ended in 1975 with the reunification of North and South Vietnam under communist rule. The victory of North Vietnam was a significant moment in the Cold War, signaling the failure of U.S. containment policy. Vietnam remained closely aligned with the Soviet Union during the Cold War, receiving economic and military aid.

the Cold War had a multifaceted impact on newly independent states like India and Vietnam. The strategic considerations of the superpowers influenced these countries' foreign policies, economic development, and, in the case of Vietnam, played a central role in a major conflict that shaped the region for decades.