Question

The period after the Second World War was marked by tension and cooperation between the Super Powers.

In this context, answer the following question:

State any four reasons for detente.

Answer 1

The following were some of the key factors that contributed to the start of the detente period between the USA and the Communist countries:

1. The Chinese authorities desired to strengthen relations with the United States because they were concerned about their separation on a global stage.
2. Since the United States had a bad experience in Vietnam, they realised that world peace required mutual understanding.
3. In order to succeed in raising the standard of living for their citizens, the Russians desired to cut back on expenditure on defence.
4. The destabilization of communism in the region was partly caused by instability arising in Poland in the 1970s.
5. The Western countries feared that, in the event of a nuclear war, their progress would be destroyed.
6. As a result of all these causes, tensions between the West and the Communist countries decreased in the 1970s.