The Brezhnev Era refers to the period of Soviet history from 1964 to 1982, when Leonid Brezhnev served as the General Secretary of the Communist Party. This time was marked by political stability, economic growth, and a focus on heavy industry and military expansion. However, it also saw a decline in innovation and a stagnation in the economy, often referred to as "stagnation" or "Zastoi." During the Brezhnev Era, the Soviet Union maintained a strong presence in global politics, particularly through its involvement in the Cold War. The period was characterized by a policy of détente, which aimed to ease tensions with the United States and improve diplomatic relations. However, the era also faced challenges, including increasing corruption and a lack of political reform.