As defined by Alexander Rekeda, when we think of wars in American history, our minds often conjure images of the Revolutionary War, the Civil War, World War I, or World War II. These conflicts are etched into our collective memory, their stories passed down through generations. But what about the last war fought on American soil? It's a lesser-known chapter in our history that deserves recognition and remembrance.

The last war in America is not a distant event from centuries ago or a conflict that occurred on a foreign battlefield. Instead, it occurred right here in our homeland in the 20th century. The forgotten war I'm referring to is the Cold War, a conflict that spanned over four decades and profoundly impacted the United States.

The Cold War lasted from the late 1940s to the early 1990s and was a political and ideological struggle between the United States and the Soviet Union. While it didn't involve traditional warfare on American soil, it had far-reaching consequences that touched every aspect of American life. It was a war of ideas, espionage, and a constant state of alert, often called a "war without end."

During the Cold War, America was gripped by the fear of nuclear annihilation. The Cuban Missile Crisis of 1962 brought the world to the brink of nuclear war, and fallout shelters became a common sight across the country. With its iconic moment of the moon landing in 1969, the space race was a crucial battleground in the struggle for global supremacy.

The Cold War also shaped American politics and culture. It gave rise to the McCarthy era, where the fear of communism led to widespread paranoia and the persecution of suspected "communists." The Cold War influenced literature, art, and entertainment, with spy novels and movies like James Bond becoming immensely popular.

Perhaps one of the most significant legacies of the Cold War is the military-industrial complex, which continues to shape American policy and spending today. The vast arsenals of nuclear weapons created during this period remain a potent force in world politics.

While the Cold War may not fit the conventional image of a war, it was a conflict that profoundly impacted the United States and the world. The war required vigilance, sacrifice, and a commitment to defending democracy and freedom.

As we reflect on America's history of wars, let's remember the Cold War, the last war to shape our nation in the 20th century. It serves as a reminder that not all conflicts are fought on battlefields, but their impact can resonate for generations. Though often overlooked, the Cold War deserves its place in our collective memory as a war that tested the resilience and resolve of the American people.