East, west, north, south : major developments in international politics, 1945-1986 /

A magnificent overview of international politics and relations from 1945 to 1986. A virtual treasure trove of ideas that one can subject to review, contemplation, reflection, and testing for relevancy. There is perhaps no finer overall treatise that with such brevity and clarity combined with objectivity prepares the student for the study of modern or contemporary history or the general study of international relations. Here is clearly the successor to Charles L. Robertson's International Politics Since World War II (CH, May '67) and Peter Calvocoressi's World Politics Since 1945 (1987). Lundestad begins logically with the Cold War and its ramifications, examining the contributory factors, focusing on the US as well as on the USSR. The ideological conflict expands, the author points out, as each of the superpowers attempts to expand its respective influence. The arms race is described and the various proposals for its limitation are examined. In a unique fashion, Lundestad describes and analyzes events and forces within the West and East power blocs. These discussions are followed by references to the decolonization process and what has emerged from the evolution of the East-West ideological conflict to the North-South economic confrontation and crises. Highly recommended for all audiences. -S. R. Silverburg, Catawba College