1945–1960
Early Cold War
Rivalry with the Soviet Union shaped American foreign policy, military planning, technology, and domestic politics.
Defining Moments
Key Historical Events
Historical events for this era are still being added. Check back soon.
Historic Places
Explore Destinations From This Era
Battleship Cove
Fall River, MA
A waterfront fleet museum where visitors can board landmark American warships spanning World War II through the Vietnam era.
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Brooklyn Navy Yard
Brooklyn, NY
A landmark New York shipyard where generations of workers built celebrated American warships and where historic industry continues within a modern manufacturing campus.
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Cape Canaveral Lighthouse
Cape Canaveral, FL
A 151-foot active lighthouse that links Florida's maritime heritage with the launch complexes of Cape Canaveral.
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Cape Canaveral Space Force Museum
Cape Canaveral, FL
A museum within historic launch complexes that preserves the missiles, rockets and facilities of America's early space program.
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Eisenhower National Historic Site
Gettysburg, PA
The Gettysburg farm where Dwight and Mamie Eisenhower lived, entertained world leaders, and found respite during the presidency and retirement.
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Floyd Bennett Field
Brooklyn, NY
New York City's first municipal airport preserves historic runways, hangars, and aviation landscapes later used by a major World War II naval air station.
View DetailsAbout This Era
Rivalry with the Soviet Union shaped American foreign policy, military planning, technology, and domestic politics.
Last updated August 2, 2026
