Domino Theory

The Domino Theory is a political concept that suggests if one country falls to communism, neighboring countries will likely follow, like a row of falling dominoes. This idea was prominent during the Cold War, influencing U.S. foreign policy, especially in Southeast Asia. Policymakers believed that failing to stop communism in one area could trigger a chain reaction, leading to widespread communism across a region. This theory justified interventions in countries like Vietnam, as the U.S. aimed to prevent the spread of communism and maintain influence in the world.