What term describes the relaxation of Cold War tensions in the 1970s?

• A. Détente
• B. Confrontation
• C. Containment
• D. Rearmament

Answer: (A)

Détente describes the relaxation of Cold War tensions in the 1970s. It marks a shift from open rivalry toward diplomacy and cooperation, with governments pursuing dialogue, arms-control agreements, and efforts to reduce the risk of direct conflict. This period included steps like negotiations to limit nuclear arms (the SALT talks and related treaties), more open communication between Washington and Moscow, and broader engagement with China, all aimed at creating a more stable international environment rather than escalating confrontation.

The other ideas describe approaches that don’t fit the idea of easing tensions: they imply increasing hostility or building up military power instead of reducing it. Confrontation suggests renewed or intensified conflict; containment is about preventing expansion of influence rather than relaxing tensions; rearmament means boosting military strength, which runs opposite to détente.