White House Years (Complete Four Volumes)

Author: Henry Kissinger (USA)
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2003-01-01
Features: One of the most famous diplomats of the 20th century, Dr. Henry Kissinger, who served as a key decision-maker in U.S. foreign policy during the 1970s, draws on his lifetime of political experience. From a historical perspective, his ten-volume masterpiece presents the turbulent dynamics 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 the United States' resurgence. The period covered in this volume was marked by domestic division and international upheaval. During this time, the United States entered a world where it no longer held absolute dominance but still retained significant influence. It was a painful but, I hope, not entirely unsuccessful transition. It initiated a process where the United States would make new contributions to the future of free societies, and in the long run, these contributions might lead to greater development. For some, this volume may appear to present perspectives on controversial issues, particularly the Vietnam War, from one side of the barricades, a side they are unfamiliar with. Here, my narrative 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 an objective stance toward our divisions by recognizing that people on both sides of the barricades are serious and earnest.