Cold War conservatism was a political and social movement in the United States that emerged in the aftermath of World War II and the beginning of the [Cold War](https://doctorparadox.net/dictionaries/cold-war-dictionary/) between the U.S. and USSR. It was characterized by a strong anti-communist stance, a commitment to limited government, and an emphasis on traditional social values. At its core, Cold War conservatism sought to preserve American society from what it saw as the threat of [[Communism]] and the alleged erosion of traditional values. It promoted a belief in free-market capitalism and a limited role for government in the economy. It also championed individualism, personal responsibility, and a strong national defense. Cold War conservatives were often critical of liberal social policies, which they saw as promoting dependence on government and undermining [traditional values](https://doctorparadox.net/dictionaries/authoritarianism/strict-father-morality/). They opposed the expansion of the welfare state and affirmative action programs, and advocated for the promotion of family values, personal responsibility, and individual rights. The movement was associated with prominent figures such as [[Barry Goldwater]], [[William F. Buckley, Jr.]], and [[Ronald Reagan]], who would become President in 1981. It had a significant impact on American politics and contributed to the [conservative resurgence](https://doctorparadox.net/save-democracy/right-wing-ideologies/radical-right/) of the 1980s and beyond. See also: [Strict Father Morality](https://doctorparadox.net/dictionaries/authoritarianism/strict-father-morality/)