The term 'Political Thaw' is used to describe the period of improved relations between the United States and the Soviet Union during the Cold War. This period is also known as 'Detente', which is a French word meaning 'RELAXATION'. The Political Thaw began in the early 1970s and lasted until the mid-1980s. During this time, both countries reduced their military presence in Europe and signed several arms control agreements. The Political Thaw also saw an increase in cultural and scientific exchanges between the two countries.