Question 1 (c) 'The main reason for the collapse of détente was the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan in 1979.' How far do you agree with this statement? Explain your answer.

Mark scheme

Marking points from the official mark scheme. The mark or mark type is shown in brackets.

1. Target: A01 (recall, select and deploy historical knowledge) and A02 (explain, analyse and make reasoned judgements).
2. Level 1 (1-3 marks): Simple statements about the collapse of détente or the invasion of Afghanistan. Limited range of knowledge. For example, states that the invasion made relations worse.
3. Level 2 (4-7 marks): Describes some reasons for the collapse of détente, which may include the Afghanistan invasion. Some explanation, but lacks balance or detailed analysis of 'main reason'. For example, describes the invasion of Afghanistan and mentions some other factors like SDI.
4. Level 3 (8-12 marks): Explains a range of reasons for the collapse of détente, addressing the role of the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan. Provides some analysis of whether it was the 'main reason' by considering other factors, but the argument may lack depth or sustained evaluation. For example, explains the impact of Afghanistan but also details US concerns about Soviet actions in Africa and the rise of hardliners.
5. Level 4 (13-16 marks): Sustained analysis and evaluation of the statement, providing a well-structured argument considering the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan in comparison to other factors leading to the collapse of détente. Reaches a clear, reasoned judgement about the extent of agreement with the statement. Demonstrates detailed and accurate historical knowledge. For example, argues that while Afghanistan was a significant factor, other elements such as the arms race, economic pressures on the Soviet Union, the rise of conservative leaders like Reagan and Thatcher, and differing ideologies were equally or more important, leading to a nuanced conclusion.
6. Indicative content:
7. - **Agree (Afghanistan as main reason):**
8. - US response: Carter Doctrine, boycott of 1980 Moscow Olympics, increased defence spending, cancellation of SALT II.
9. - Demonstrated Soviet aggression and expansionism, ending the spirit of cooperation.
10. - Led directly to a period of heightened tension and renewed Cold War rhetoric.
11. - **Disagree (Other factors):**
12. - **Arms Race/SDI ('Star Wars'):** Reagan's aggressive stance and investment in defence technology (e.g., SDI) escalated tensions.
13. - **Human Rights:** US concerns over Soviet human rights record, particularly after the Helsinki Accords.
14. - **Soviet expansionism elsewhere:** Soviet involvement in Africa (Angola, Ethiopia) seen as undermining détente prior to Afghanistan.
15. - **Economic pressures:** Mounting economic difficulties in the Soviet Union (exacerbated by Afghanistan) made it harder to sustain détente.
16. - **Leadership changes:** The rise of hardline leaders in the US (Reagan) and UK (Thatcher) who were deeply suspicious of the USSR.
17. - **Underlying ideological conflict:** The fundamental clash of ideologies was never fully resolved during détente, merely managed.
18. - **Lack of trust:** Despite treaties, a deep-seated mistrust persisted between the superpowers.