Which international agreement aimed at reducing nuclear weapons was signed by the United States and the Soviet Union in 1972?

• A. New START Treaty
• B. Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty
• C. Strategic Arms Limitation Treaty (SALT I)
• D. Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty

Answer: (C)

The Strategic Arms Limitation Treaty (SALT I), signed in 1972, represents a significant milestone in international efforts to control the arms race during the Cold War. This treaty was designed to limit the number of strategic ballistic missile launchers and set a framework for further discussions on arms reduction between the United States and the Soviet Union. SALT I was the first agreement of its kind, leading the way for future negotiations and treaties focused on nuclear arms control.

The SALT I agreement solidified the recognition by both superpowers that limiting the proliferation of nuclear weapons was necessary for global security. By establishing concrete limits on the arms buildup, this treaty played a crucial role in easing tensions during a politically charged period, showing that dialogue and negotiation could lead to tangible outcomes.

In contrast, other options like the New START Treaty and the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty were established later, and the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty focuses on preventing the spread of nuclear weapons rather than limiting existing arsenals at the strategic level. Thus, SALT I is correctly identified as the landmark agreement signed in 1972 aimed directly at curtailing the nuclear arms race between the two superpowers.