A Christmas in Washington: The 1941 Arcadia Conference and the Road to War in the Pacific

A Pivotal Moment in History

In December 1941, as the world teetered on the brink of war, President Franklin D. Roosevelt and British Prime Minister Winston Churchill met in Washington, D.C., for a crucial conference that would shape the course of history. In A Christmas in Washington, renowned historians David Bercuson and Holger Herwig provide a gripping account of this pivotal meeting, offering new insights into the decisions that led to the United States' entry into World War II.

A Masterful Blend of Scholarship and Storytelling

Bercuson and Herwig draw on a wealth of primary sources, including recently declassified documents, to reconstruct the events of the Arcadia Conference in meticulous detail. They vividly recreate the tense atmosphere of the negotiations, as Roosevelt and Churchill grappled with the looming threat of war and the complex geopolitical challenges of the time.

But A Christmas in Washington is more than just a historical narrative. It is also a masterful work of storytelling, bringing to life the personalities and motivations of the key players involved. Bercuson and Herwig deftly weave together the personal stories of Roosevelt, Churchill, and their advisors, providing a nuanced understanding of the human drama that unfolded behind the scenes.

A New Perspective on the Road to War

Through their meticulous research and engaging storytelling, Bercuson and Herwig challenge conventional wisdom about the origins of the Pacific War. They argue that the Arcadia Conference was not simply a rubber-stamp for war, but rather a complex and dynamic process of negotiation and decision-making. By shedding new light on this critical moment in history, A Christmas in Washington offers a fresh perspective on the road to war and its far-reaching consequences.

A Must-Read for History Buffs and World War II Enthusiasts

A Christmas in Washington is a must-read for anyone interested in history, World War II, or the complex interplay of diplomacy and leadership. Bercuson and Herwig's masterful work is a testament to the power of historical scholarship and the enduring fascination of one of the most consequential events in modern history.

Praise for A Christmas in Washington

"A brilliant and meticulously researched account of the Arcadia Conference. Bercuson and Herwig have produced a masterpiece that will reshape our understanding of the origins of the Pacific War." —John Keegan, author of The Second World War

"A gripping narrative that brings to life the high-stakes diplomacy and personal drama of the Arcadia Conference. A must-read for anyone interested in World War II history." —Margaret MacMillan, author of The War That Ended Peace

"A magisterial work of scholarship that combines deep research with engaging storytelling. A Christmas in Washington is a major contribution to our understanding of the origins of World War II." —Richard B. Frank, author of Tower of Skulls