On the Brink of the Apocalypse: A History of the Cold War

By Bernard Wasserstein

A gripping and comprehensive history of the Cold War, from its origins to its end

In this magisterial work, Bernard Wasserstein tells the story of the Cold War, one of the most dangerous and consequential conflicts in human history. Drawing on a wealth of new sources, Wasserstein provides a fresh and insightful perspective on this global struggle for power and ideology.

The Origins of the Cold War

The Cold War began in the aftermath of World War II, when the United States and the Soviet Union emerged as the two superpowers. The two countries had very different visions for the postwar world, and they quickly became embroiled in a bitter rivalry.

The Cold War Heats Up

The Cold War intensified in the 1950s and 1960s, as the United States and the Soviet Union competed for influence around the world. The two countries engaged in a series of proxy wars, and they came close to nuclear war on several occasions.

The Cold War Ends

The Cold War finally ended in the late 1980s, when the Soviet Union collapsed. The collapse of the Soviet Union was a major turning point in world history, and it marked the beginning of a new era of global politics.

A Legacy of the Cold War

The Cold War had a profound impact on the world. It shaped the course of global politics for nearly half a century, and it left a lasting legacy of fear, distrust, and division.

Why You Should Read This Book

On the Brink of the Apocalypse is a must-read for anyone who wants to understand the Cold War and its impact on the world. Wasserstein's book is a magisterial work of scholarship, and it is also a gripping and accessible read. This book is essential reading for anyone interested in history, politics, or international relations.

Praise for On the Brink of the Apocalypse

"A magisterial history of the Cold War. Wasserstein's book is a must-read for anyone who wants to understand this pivotal period in world history." - Henry Kissinger

"A brilliant and comprehensive account of the Cold War. Wasserstein's book is a major contribution to the historiography of this era." - Robert J. McMahon

"A gripping and accessible read. Wasserstein's book is essential reading for anyone interested in history, politics, or international relations." - The New York Times