Third World

The three worlds

The "Third World" describes the developing countries.

History

The term Third World was introduced during the Cold war between the United States and the Soviet Union. At that time, there were three "worlds". Colors do not represent current economic development.

•   First World: the United States, Western Europe and their allies.
•   Second World: the Soviet Union, China, and their allies.
•   Third World: neutral and non-aligned countries.