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He played a significant role in the Soviet Union's development of nuclear weapons and thermonuclear devices. However, Sakharov later became an outspoken critic of nuclear proliferation and dedicated his life to promoting human rights, democracy, and disarmament. Sakharov's increasing concern for the consequences of nuclear war led him to advocate for negotiations between the United States and the Soviet Union in the late 1950s. He became an advocate for arms control and initiated the concept of "peaceful coexistence" between the two superpowers. Sakharov was deeply involved in the development of the Soviet Union's first hydrogen bomb, but his growing disillusionment with the arms race led him to call for a halt to further testing and production of nuclear weapons. As a human rights activist, Sakharov exposed the suppression of intellectual and political dissent in the Soviet Union. He criticized the lack of freedom of speech and the arbitrary nature of political trials. Sakharov was also involved in the defense of other dissidents, including famous figures like writer Alexander Solzhenitsyn. His outspoken nature and persistent activism led the Soviet authorities to place Sakharov under house arrest in the 1980s. In 1975, Sakharov was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his efforts in promoting disarmament and human rights. This recognition brought international attention to his cause and helped raise awareness about the oppressive nature of the Soviet regime. Despite the restrictions imposed on him, Sakharov continued to write and advocate for reform until his release in 1986. Andrei Sakharov's legacy as a scientist and activist continues to inspire human rights advocates worldwide. His relentless pursuit of peace, freedom, and nuclear disarmament left an indelible mark on the history of the Soviet Union and the human rights movement.