9.3 The Cold War: After Vietnam to the End

Front

Nixon's visit to China in 1972

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The US normalized its relationship with China, recognizing Communist China as a nation and opening trade between the US and China. This aimed to gain leverage over the USSR.

Front

Nixon's visit to the Soviet Union in 1972

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The US played the USSR and China against each other, leading to increased trade with the USSR and a relaxation of tensions known as détente.

Front

"One China" policy

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The US recognized Beijing as the government of China, acknowledging Communist China as a nation.

Front

Détente

Back

A relaxation of tensions between the US and the USSR, exemplified by cooperation in slowing the growth of nuclear weapons.

Front

SALT (Strategic Arms Limitation Talks), 1972

Back

An agreement that froze the number of nuclear missiles at current levels, representing a slowing of the arms race.

Front

Ford and the Cold War

Back

Continues détente: less tension and more cooperation

Front

Camp David Accords (1977)

Back

Carter oversees peace treaty between Egypt and Iran to reduce conflict in the Middle East and create stability

Front

Motivation for Camp David Accords

Back

Previous OPEC oil embargoes hurting US economy in 1970s

Front

Iran Hostage Crisis (1979)

Back

Iran overthrows US-supported ruler; Islamic fundamentalists attack U.S. embassy in Tehran and take over 50 hostages

Front

Resolution of Iran Hostage Crisis

Back

Not released until 1980, after Carter leaves office