What does NATO stand for?

NATO stands for North Atlantic Treaty Organization, which was established in 1949 as a military alliance among the United States, Canada, and several Western European nations. The primary purpose of NATO is to ensure collective defense and security among its member states. The organization was formed in response to the rising tensions during the Cold War, offering a platform for political and military cooperation aimed at countering the influence of the Soviet Union and its allies.

The emphasis on a "Treaty" in the name highlights the formal agreements made between the member states to promote mutual defense and cooperation. This foundational treaty is known as the Washington Treaty, emphasizing collective defense as articulated in its Article 5, which states that an attack on one member is treated as an attack on all. Understanding this context is crucial as it reflects NATO's role in international relations, particularly during periods of geopolitical strife.