The end of the Cold War, 1970-91 (Edexcel GCSE History): Model Answers

The SALT I Treaty was crucial because it strengthened détente and laid the groundwork for further arms control negotiations between the USA and the Soviet Union, particularly following the heightened fears of nuclear war during the Cuban Missile Crisis. SALT I limited the number of missiles and bombers each side could deploy, which was important for building trust between the superpowers. By slowing the arms race, the treaty allowed both nations to redirect resources towards improving their economies and raising standards of living.

Additionally, SALT I played a key role in fostering détente, which led to trade agreements between the USA and the Soviet Union. The Soviets exported oil to the USA while receiving American grain. This cooperation culminated in the Helsinki Accords of 1975, considered the "high point of détente," with agreements on security, international cooperation, and human rights. Further collaboration followed, such as the Apollo-Soyuz space link-up, which symbolised friendlier relations between the superpowers and made the world seem safer.

SALT I was also significant as it opened the door to subsequent arms control negotiations, leading to the SALT II agreement in June 1979. However, SALT II was never ratified by the U.S. Senate due to the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan, which marked the end of détente. Nevertheless, SALT I remains a milestone in the history of Cold War diplomacy, illustrating the potential for arms control to mitigate superpower tensions.