What was the primary purpose of the Strategic Arms Limitation Treaty (SALT I)?

The primary purpose of the Strategic Arms Limitation Treaty (SALT I) was to limit the arms race between the superpowers, specifically the United States and the Soviet Union. Signed in 1972, SALT I marked a significant effort to curtail the growing stockpiles of nuclear weapons and missile systems that defined the Cold War era. By establishing limitations on anti-ballistic missile systems and intercontinental ballistic missiles, the treaty aimed to create a framework for dialogue and negotiation that would help reduce the pressures of an escalating arms competition.

The focus on limiting weapons not only contributed to a temporary easing of tensions between the superpowers but also laid the groundwork for future arms control agreements. Thus, the treaty was a pivotal step towards promoting stability in international relations during a time marked by fear of nuclear confrontation.