Historian A: John Lewis Gaddis – Political/Military Perspective

'The Iron Curtain emerged primarily as a result of Soviet expansionism and the Western response. Stalin’s desire to spread communism and secure borders led to the division of Europe, with the US and its allies responding to contain Soviet influence. The division was thus driven by mutual suspicion, military strategies, and conflicting ideologies, which escalated tensions and created the Cold War.'

Historian B: Anne Deighton – Social/Cultural Perspective

'The Iron Curtain’s origins can be traced to deeper social and cultural differences between East and West. Divergent values, historical experiences, and national identities fueled mistrust and hostility. While political events played a role, the division was also rooted in long-standing social divides that shaped perceptions and interactions, making the Iron Curtain a reflection of societal differences as much as political motives.'