Cold War
The Cold War was the key international dynamic of the time, pitting the former Soviet Union and its allies against the United States and its western allies. Both sides sought to maintain or expand their influence in regions around the world, as well as through the dangerous expansion of nuclear arsenals. Kennedy used his inaugural speech to warn the Soviets and their allies against pushing the world again to the brink of a possible nuclear war. He also made clear U.S. intentions to protect freedom and democracy in the western hemisphere against Soviet incursions or influence-seeking