The Iron Curtain Analysis

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The 72’ summit series that was played on both sides of the Iron Curtain marked the first time Canada alone, had the power in the West during the whole Cold War. A single hockey series showcased a whole nations pride to the world during a time of international conflict. That is what sets this sporting event apart from the rest. It was the 1970’s and the Cold War had the world virtually split into two. Separated by the Iron Curtain there was the east, dominated by the Soviet Union vs. the west, lead by the United States of America. It was a clash between two hostile economic and political systems, communism vs. capitalism. Which system was better? The Cold War had drawn the whole world’s attention. These two super power nations were on the verge…show more content…
For the Soviets, success in sporting events was especially important to them as they viewed domination of sport proof that communism should rule. Throughout this time period Canada remained in the shadows of Americans. Canada shared the same views as their southern neighbors however Canadians always took a back seat when it came to international matters especially during the Cold War. Canada was viewed as a yes man nation to the powerful country of the west. Although this changed and the tables turned in 1972 a hockey series was arranged to be played on both sides of the Iron Curtain. This series had Canada’s superstars, who played professionally, going head to head with the soviets who had dominated international play for the past decade. The USA had the power, money and armed forces to lead the west during the Cold War but in Canada we had hockey. Hockey alone separated us from the Americans and for the first time our great nation stepped out from behind the Americans and took center stage in the Cold War. The world finally recognized Canada as its own powerful country. Canada was in control of the west, and our hockey players became the face of capitalism. It was here that hockey changed from just a game into national
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