Détente and Arms Control, 1969–1979. Between the late 1960s and the late 1970s, there was a thawing of the ongoing Cold War between the United States and the Soviet Union. This détente took several forms, including increased discussion on arms control.

When did détente begin and end?

détente, period of the easing of Cold War tensions between the U.S. and the Soviet Union from 1967 to 1979.

How did détente start?

Détente (a French word meaning release from tension) is the name given to a period of improved relations between the United States and the Soviet Union that began tentatively in 1971 and took decisive form when President Richard M. Nixon visited the secretary-general of the Soviet Communist party, Leonid I.