Origins of détente

Détente

The process of easing tensions between superpowers, especially regarding nuclear weapons.

Mutual Assured Destruction

A military theory that nuclear weapons deter use by ensuring total destruction of the attacker and defender.

Summit

A periodic meeting of leaders to discuss global issues of mutual concern.

Cuban Missile Crisis

A 1962 confrontation between the USA and the USSR over Soviet missiles in Cuba, illustrating the dangers of nuclear escalation.

Atomic Monopoly

A very brief period where the USA was the only nation with nuclear weapons, ending with Soviet development in 1949.

Peaceful Coexistence

A policy proposed by Khrushchev where the USA and the USSR would compete without engaging in war.

Nuclear Test Ban Treaty

A 1963 agreement between the USA and USSR to cease underwater, space, and atmospheric testing of nuclear weapons.

The New Look

Eisenhower's national security policy emphasizing covert operations and technology rather than large conventional forces.

Khrushchev's Dilemma

The challenge of improving the Soviet Union's quality of life while decreasing military spending.

Military Decision vs Political Decision

The shift where political leaders made decisions regarding war and peace, rather than military leaders.