The transference of conventional weapons is a most often used tool in American foreign policy during the Cold War. It evolved from Americas foreign aid policy in early postwar years and its complete decisionmaking process and guiding principle were finalized in the 1970s. Subsequent American administrations adopted different policies: the Carter administration exercised selfrestraint and effectively constrained American arms transfer to other countries; the Reagan administration engaged in arms expansion and increased foreign arms sales; the George Bush administration promoted a policy of both restraint and encouragement that seemed paradoxical in the course of the transformation of the international situation. The evolution of Americas policy on arms transfer reflects its strategic and political support. The changes of the target country for foreign military aid or arms sales indicate the shift and change of the focus in Americas foreign strategy.