The Cold War Period was a time of tension between the United States and the Soviet Union from 1945 to 1991. During this period, the two superpowers sought to gain influence in the world while avoiding direct military conflict. One of the strategies used to reduce tensions was known as detente, which was a policy of improved relations and increased cooperation between the two sides. Detente was an important part of the Cold War Period, and it helped to reduce the risk of nuclear war.