World War II had a profound impact on the world, leading to significant changes in global politics, society, and technology. Here are some key aspects of the aftermath and legacy of the war:

1. Founding of the United Nations: In an effort to prevent future conflicts and promote international cooperation, the United Nations was established in 1945. This organization aimed to maintain peace and security, promote human rights, and foster economic and social development.

2. Division of Germany: After the war, Germany was divided into two separate countries: West Germany, which was controlled by the Western Allies, and East Germany, which fell under Soviet influence. This division represented the broader divide between the Western capitalist democracies and the Eastern bloc led by the Soviet Union.

3. Beginning of the Cold War: The end of World War II marked the beginning of the Cold War, a geopolitical standoff between the United States and the Soviet Union. This ideological conflict shaped global politics for several decades, leading to military build-ups, proxy wars, and the threat of nuclear annihilation.