One immediate effect of the Cold War on South Carolina and the nation was a significant increase in military presence and defense spending. South Carolina, with its numerous military bases such as Charleston and Shaw Air Force bases, saw a surge in activity as the U.S. government ramped up its military capabilities in response to the perceived threat from the Soviet Union. This led to increased economic activity, job creation, and investment in infrastructure in the state. Additionally, the Cold War also fueled the growth of the defense industry nationwide, with companies like Boeing, Lockheed Martin, and Northrop Grumman playing a major role in supplying the military with weapons and equipment.
