Liberalism is a collection of ideologies based on the principle of dignity and freedom of the individual as a foundation for society.
Classical liberalism came about after the Renaissance and Reformation, which sparked the beliefs of the importance of the individual and that reason was as significant as faith. Around the 19th century many ideologies came around; Luddism, Chartism, Socialism, Humanitarians, Marxism, and classical conservatism. Each opposed liberalism. Liberalism brought a bought welfare capitalism, and welfare states that helped people in need. Labour unions were created by workers who wanted better conditions and wages. The Great Depression made people realize that government involvement in the market could balance the rises and recessions.
Two of the biggest ideologies that rejected liberalism were communism and fascism, both were totalitarianism forms of government. The Soviet Union was radical, as it moved to the far left; and Nazi Germany was reactionary, as it idealized the past. The people in these countries had very little control and very poor living situations. These ideologies wreaked havoc in their respective countries and on the world. In the 20th century modern liberalism arose in industrialized countries.
The Cold War was an ideological war between the United States and the Soviet Union. Many proxy wars happened during this time period. This war ended when both the US and Russia realized that it would result in a full scale nuclear war. This war shaped our world and relations with other countries. Liberalism should be justified when it helps the people, and provides them with their needs.