What major global conflict arose from tensions between the Communist and capitalist nations after World War II?

The major global conflict that arose from tensions between Communist and capitalist nations after World War II is known as the Cold War. This period, spanning roughly from the late 1940s to the early 1990s, was characterized by political, military, and ideological rivalry primarily between the United States and its allies, representing capitalist democracy, and the Soviet Union and its allies, representing communist governance.

The Cold War was distinguished by its absence of direct large-scale fighting between the two superpowers, which is a defining feature that sets it apart from other conflicts. Instead, it involved a range of strategies including nuclear arms races, espionage, propaganda, and a series of proxy wars in various regions around the globe. Notable examples of these proxy wars include the Korean War and the Vietnam War, which occurred later during the Cold War, illustrating how these tensions played out in different global contexts.

Understanding the Cold War requires recognition of how the aftermath of World War II, particularly the division of Europe and differing ideologies between nations, created a long-standing state of geopolitical tension that influenced global relations for decades. The label "World War III" is not accepted in this context, as it implies a conflict involving direct military confrontation on a similar scale to the world wars