c) Economic systems

The “Kitchen Debate” of 1959 stands as a remarkable and symbolic moment in Cold War history, showcasing the ideological clash between the United States and the Soviet Union. This impromptu yet pivotal exchange took place between U.S. Vice President Richard Nixon and Soviet Premier Nikita Khrushchev at the American National Exhibition in Moscow. Set against the backdrop of a model American kitchen, the debate centered on the comparative merits and efficiencies of capitalism and communism, reflecting the broader economic and political ideologies that defined the Cold War era. The conversation ranged from the domesticity of kitchen appliances to broader issues of consumer freedom and technological advancement. This unique moment of direct, informal discourse between U.S. and Soviet leaders captured global attention, symbolizing the intense rivalry of the era. It highlighted not just economic and political differences, but also the cultural and lifestyle divergences between the two superpowers, framing the Cold War not only as a geopolitical struggle but also as a contest of living standards and technological progress.