Domino Effect

Definition

A theory during the Cold War that suggested if one country fell to communism, then its neighboring countries would also fall like a row of dominos.

Related terms

Vietnam War: A prolonged war (1954-1975) between the communist armies of North Vietnam who were supported by the Chinese and the non-communist armies of South Vietnam who were supported by the United States; an example where domino effect was feared.

Containment Policy: As mentioned earlier, this policy was designed to prevent the spread of communism abroad—a central goal of U.S foreign policy for more than 40 years.

Marshall Plan: An American initiative passed in 1948 for foreign aid to Western Europe, aiming to rebuild regions devastated by World War II and prevent them from falling into Soviet influence or turning towards communism.