Proxy wars are conflicts where major powers instigate or support smaller groups or states to fight on their behalf, rather than engaging directly.
Imagine two puppet masters controlling their puppets in a show. The puppet masters don't interact directly, but they make their puppets perform actions that reflect their intentions. That's what happens in proxy wars - the major powers pull the strings from behind the scenes.
Vietnam War: A significant proxy war during the Cold War era where North Vietnam (supported by USSR and China) fought against South Vietnam (supported by US).
Korean War: Another key proxy war during the Cold War, with North Korea (backed by USSR and China) fighting against South Korea (backed by US).
Cuban Missile Crisis: An event during the Cold War that nearly escalated into a full-blown conflict between US and USSR, using Cuba as a 'proxy' location for potential warfare.
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