A state of political rivalry and tension existing between the Western Allies (favoring democratically elected governments and independent European states) and the Soviet Union (striving for a Soviet-influenced bloc of communist countries). The Cold War started because Europe lost power at the end of World War II. ... This left the Soviet Union and the United States competing for economic and military rule. Both countries believed their policies were the best and ultimately wanted all others to follow.
to impose a tax on items by requiring them to purchase a stamp also it was a tax to help pay for the British troops stationed in the colonies during the 7 year war
