Henry Kissinger played a central role in shaping America's foreign policy during his tenure as Secretary of State from 1973 to 1977. Known for his policy of détente, he aimed to ease tensions between the United States and the Soviet Union. Kissinger's strategies included opening diplomatic relations with China and negotiating arms control agreements. His approach emphasized realism and pragmatic negotiations, particularly through the Paris Peace Accords, which sought to end U.S. involvement in the Vietnam War. Kissinger's influence extended beyond traditional diplomacy, impacting global politics during a pivotal era of the Cold War.