What did the term "Détente" refer to during the Cold War?

During the Cold War, "Détente" referred to a significant diplomatic period characterized by the easing of tensions between the United States and the Soviet Union. This approach emerged in the late 1960s and continued into the 1970s, marking a shift from the intense ideological confrontation and military standoffs that had defined earlier years of the Cold War.

The policy of Détente involved various diplomatic efforts, including treaties such as the Strategic Arms Limitation Talks (SALT) agreements, which aimed to limit the nuclear arms race. It also encouraged increased trade and communication between the two superpowers, fostering a more cooperative atmosphere where direct confrontations were reduced.

The intention behind Détente was to stabilize international relations, decrease the risk of nuclear conflict, and open channels for dialogue. This period was instrumental in showcasing how diplomacy could serve as a means to manage and transform competition into constructive engagement, laying a foundation for future negotiations and eventual shifts in international relations at the close of the Cold War.