Between 1947 and 1991, the United States and the Soviet Union vied for power during the Cold War. Eventually, the Soviet Union collapsed under economic strain, leaving the U.S. to stand as a super power. The U.S. certainly holds significant military and economical power, allowing the nation to influence worldwide stability. The international world directs praise and criticism at the way the U.S. wields its power.
Equipped with the highest national population in the world, China is a world power. The nation invests much time and money into research and development, an endeavor that can put it ahead of many other nations in terms of technology. China also wields regional hegemony throughout Eastern Asia.
The tiny island nation of Japan holds big potential. The nation excels in economic power. Consider the major companies based in Japan: Sony, Canon, Nintendo and Yamaha, among many others; these names are commonplace all around the world, especially in the U.S. Despite possessing few natural resources and low military power in comparison to many of the other world powers, Japan relies on technologically innovative exports to hold power in the marketplace.
The U.K. is comprised of England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. In the past, Great Britain stood as a powerful force, using its naval forces to start colonies all around the world. In the 1700's and 1800's, the Industrial Revolution also gave the U.K. a boost in power. The U.K. continues to hold onto the world power status it attained in the past.
The list of world powers is not limited to these nations and states. Areas such as Russia, France and Germany also hold significant power in the international community. It is also possible for lesser known parts of the world to rise to the status of world power.
