MILITARY BUILDUPS AND ARMS-CONTROL AGREEMENTS

This article uses data for the period 1816-1992 to test hypotheses reg arding the occurrence and repercussions of arms control agreements (AC As). In particular, it evaluates the extent to which the ACAs are asso ciated with a significant transformation of the international environm ent. It establishes that agreements that restrict the level of arms te nd to be introduced in periods of military buildup decelerations, but fail to be accompanied by lower military spending patterns beyond the short run; and that agreements are followed by a significant decrease in the frequency of international conflict.