Question

In 1979, what event saw the end of detente (easing of tensions) between the United States and U.S.S.R., and an uptick in the Cold War rivalry? A) The American involvement in Vietnam. B) The Soviet invasion of Afghanistan. C) The American bombing of Laos and Cambodia. D) The Soviet invasion of Poland.

Answer 1

The end of détente, or easing of tensions, between the US and USSR in 1979 and subsequent uptick in the Cold War was instigated by the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan. This event significantly escalated Cold War hostilities.

The end of détente (easing of tensions) between the United States and the U.S.S.R., leading to an uptick in the Cold War rivalry, was marked by the event of The Soviet invasion of Afghanistan in 1979. This action provoked international uproar and marked a significant escalation in the Cold War. The period of détente was characterized by the Strategic Arms Limitations Treaty (SALT) in 1972, a mutual agreement between the USSR and the USA to restrict the development of anti-ballistic missiles, demonstrating an attempt at easing tensions and preventing mutually assured destruction. The Soviet invasion of Afghanistan signaled a stark resurgence of hostilities.

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