Iceland in the Cold War

During the Cold War, Iceland, a NATO member, played a strategic role due to its location in the North Atlantic, despite not having its own military. The United States maintained a military presence at Keflavík Air Base from 1951 to 2006, contributing significantly to Iceland's defense and economy. Iceland hosted the 1986 Reykjavík Summit between U.S. President Ronald Reagan and Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev, a key moment in nuclear disarmament talks.

Iceland's path to NATO membership began after World War II. Despite initial resistance to hosting foreign troops, Iceland joined NATO in 1949. This decision sparked protests, as some Icelanders opposed military alliances. The Cold War increased pressure on Iceland, leading to a defense agreement with the U.S. in 1951. The U.S. assumed responsibility for Iceland's defense, providing economic assistance and diplomatic support, while the base became critical for monitoring Soviet submarine activity and serving as part of NATO's early warning system.

The presence of U.S. soldiers in Iceland during the Cold War sparked significant social tensions, particularly due to interactions between American troops and Icelandic women. The Icelandic government, concerned about these relations, imposed curfews and restricted soldiers' freedom of movement. Many local businesses refused to serve U.S. soldiers, and Icelandic organizations warned of the negative influence they might bring to society.

These interactions were viewed as highly contentious, with reports in the media highlighting issues such as rape, prostitution, druggings, and children born out of wedlock. Icelandic authorities even incarcerated dozens of women for engaging in relationships with U.S. soldiers. In an effort to "protect" Icelandic women and maintain a homogeneous society, the Icelandic government also banned black U.S. soldiers from being stationed at the Keflavík base.

Throughout the Cold War, Iceland maintained its alliance with the U.S., although there were moments of domestic opposition, particularly regarding the U.S. military presence. Iceland threatened to withdraw from NATO during disputes like the Cod Wars with the U.K., but the U.S. and NATO allies worked to appease Iceland. The U.S. military withdrawal in 2006 marked the end of its physical presence, though Iceland remains under NATO’s protection. Despite tensions, Iceland benefited economically and diplomatically from its close relationship with the U.S. during the Cold War.