White House Years - The Complete Four Volumes

Author: Henry Kissinger
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2003-01-01
Features: One of the most renowned diplomats of the 20th century, Dr. Henry Kissinger, who was a key decision-maker in U.S. foreign policy during the 1970s, draws on his lifelong political experience. Standing from a historical perspective, this monumental 10-volume work presents the shifting currents of international politics in the second half of the 20th century to readers, vividly portrays numerous leaders of the era, and reveals the secrets behind America's reinvigoration. The period covered in this volume was one of domestic division and international turmoil. During this time, the United States entered a world where it no longer held the dominant position but still retained significant influence. It was a painful, yet I hope not entirely unsuccessful, transition. It marked the beginning of a new contribution by the United States to the future of free societies, a contribution that might lead to greater progress in the long run. For some, this volume may appear to view controversial issues, particularly the Vietnam War, from one side of the barricade, a side they are unfamiliar with. Here, my account is as faithful to the facts as possible, with the aim of reconciliation rather than reviving old grievances or scoring points in debate. As a nation, we can only adopt a detached attitude toward our divisions by acknowledging that people on both sides of the barricade are serious.