What was a key feature of Detente?

• A. Escalation of arms race without negotiations
• B. US-USSR alliance against China
• C. Complete nuclear disarmament of both sides
• D. Hotline between the White House and the Kremlin

Answer: (D)

Detente aimed to ease Cold War tensions by opening lines of contact and pursuing dialogue rather than face-offs. A hallmark of that approach was establishing a direct line of communication between the White House and the Kremlin. This hotline allowed leaders to talk quickly and clearly during crises, reducing the risk of miscommunication or hasty, escalatory moves. It symbolized a shift toward managing disagreements through contact and negotiation rather than sudden confrontation.

That’s why this is the best choice. The other options describe behavior that detente sought to move away from—escalating arms without talks, forming an alliance against a third country, or pursuing complete disarmament—whereas the hotline embodies the era’s emphasis on direct, steady communication to prevent crisis and stabilize relations.