Brezhnev Era policies

The Brezhnev Era, from 1964 to 1982, was characterized by a focus on stability in the Soviet Union, economic expansion, and a policy of détente with the West. Leonid Brezhnev prioritized heavy industry and military spending while maintaining central control over the economy. This period saw increased consumer goods availability but also stagnation and inefficiency. Politically, it was marked by censorship and repression, with limited political freedoms. Diplomatically, Brezhnev sought to ease tensions with the U.S. and engage in arms control treaties, although conflicts like the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan in 1979 highlighted ongoing tensions.