Policy of "detente"

Definition

The Policy of 'detente' refers to the easing of strained relations, especially in a political context, particularly between the United States and the Soviet Union during the Cold War. This approach aimed to reduce tensions and foster diplomatic engagement, leading to a series of treaties and agreements that sought to limit the arms race and promote stability in international relations.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Detente began in the late 1960s under President Richard Nixon and continued into the 1970s, marking a significant shift from previous confrontational strategies.
2. The signing of the Strategic Arms Limitation Treaty (SALT I) in 1972 was a milestone achievement of the detente policy, placing limits on nuclear arsenals.
3. The Policy of detente included diplomatic visits between leaders, notably Nixon's visit to China in 1972, which also contributed to altering global power dynamics.
4. Despite its intentions, detente faced challenges and criticisms, particularly following events like the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan in 1979, which marked a return to more hostile relations.
5. Detente set the stage for future arms control efforts and diplomatic initiatives, influencing US foreign policy well into the late 20th century.

Review Questions

• How did the Policy of 'detente' influence U.S.-Soviet relations during the Cold War?
  • The Policy of 'detente' significantly influenced U.S.-Soviet relations by promoting dialogue and cooperation rather than confrontation. Through various treaties like SALT I and diplomatic visits between leaders, both nations aimed to ease tensions and prevent nuclear escalation. This approach led to reduced hostility during a critical period of the Cold War, although it was not without its challenges and setbacks.
• What were some major agreements or events that characterized the Policy of 'detente', and how did they impact international relations?
  • Major agreements that characterized the Policy of 'detente' included the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty and SALT I. These treaties aimed at limiting nuclear arms proliferation played a vital role in stabilizing international relations during a tense period. Events such as Nixon's visit to China also expanded the diplomatic landscape, as they encouraged other nations to engage with both superpowers, reshaping global alliances.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of the Policy of 'detente' in achieving long-term peace between superpowers during the Cold War. What factors led to its eventual decline?
  • The effectiveness of the Policy of 'detente' in achieving long-term peace between superpowers is complex. While it succeeded in reducing immediate tensions and fostering important treaties, it ultimately failed to create lasting stability due to various factors. Key among these was the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan in 1979, which reignited hostilities and undermined trust. Additionally, domestic political pressures within both countries questioned the efficacy of detente, leading to a renewed arms race and a return to more aggressive policies.

Related terms

Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty: An international treaty aimed at preventing the spread of nuclear weapons and promoting peaceful uses of nuclear energy, significant during the detente era.

SALT I and SALT II: Strategic Arms Limitation Talks (SALT) were negotiations between the US and the Soviet Union to limit the number of strategic ballistic missile launchers, forming key agreements in the detente period.

Cold War:

A prolonged period of geopolitical tension between the Soviet Union and the United States, characterized by ideological conflict, military build-up, and proxy wars.