Post-Atomic Horror

The Post-Atomic Horror was a period in Earth history following the end of World War III in 2053, and running through the following decades. This period was marked by a breakdown in civil society and government and the denial of rights to alleged criminals.

This period lasted at least through 2079, a year depicted by Q when he put Captain Jean-Luc Picard on trial for humanity's savagery. 

Earth had emerged from this period by the early 22nd century, thanks to the assistance of the Vulcans, who made first contact with humanity during this period, in 2063.