Question

What are some of your opinions on the effects of the cold war on third world countries, such as Germany

Answer 1

A number of countries became proxies in the Cold War by the Soviet Union and the Western powers.

Germany, in particular, was split in half following the end of WW2 and became a hotbed of international intrigue in the following decades because of the close proximity between East and West there (East Germany was backed by the Soviets, West Germany by NATO and its allies).

Personally, from my point of view, the Cold War damaged many countries and was a negative influence on their development either indirectly or directly. The Soviets and the West used their resources to try and check each other across the globe using these countries, sending support and materials to help their allies.

After the Cold War ended, a lot of this support dried up. But the effects of being used by either power are still felt even today such as in the Middle East. Yesterday's ally has, in some cases, become today's inconvenient villain. It's an impression that some countries are not willing to forget after so many years of being "used".