The Hawk and the Dove Audiobook By Nicholas Thompson cover art

The Hawk and the Dove

Paul Nitze, George Kennan, and the History of the Cold War

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The Hawk and the Dove

By: Nicholas Thompson
Narrated by: Michael Prichard
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Only two Americans held positions of great influence throughout the Cold War; ironically, they were the chief advocates for the opposing strategies for winning---and surviving---that harrowing conflict. Both men came to power during World War II, reached their professional peaks during the Cold War's most frightening moments, and fought epic political battles that spanned decades. Yet despite their very different views, Paul Nitze and George Kennan dined together, attended the weddings of each other's children, and remained good friends all their lives. In this masterly double biography, Nicholas Thompson brings Nitze and Kennan to vivid life. Nitze---the hawk---was a consummate insider who believed that the best way to avoid a nuclear clash was to prepare to win one. More than any other American, he was responsible for the arms race. Kennan---the dove---was a diplomat turned academic whose famous "X article" persuasively argued that we should contain the Soviet Union while waiting for it to collapse from within. For 40 years, he exercised more influence on foreign affairs than any other private citizen. As he weaves a fascinating narrative that follows these two rivals and friends from the beginning of the Cold War to its end, Thompson accomplishes something remarkable: he tells the story of our nation during the most dangerous half century in history.©2009 Nicholas Thompson (P)2009 Tantor Cold War Political Science Biographies & Memoirs Politics & Government Arms Control International Relations Soviet Union Historical War Russia World Interwar Period Socialism Middle East Imperialism Vietnam War

Critic reviews

"A gently critical assessment of two influential shapers of U.S. foreign policy.... Fascinating." ( Kirkus)
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Interesting story of two smart people at important moments in our history. This book is well researched and written, and presents a balanced view of both subjects. The author has a wonderful writing style and the narrator is excellent.

Recommended read

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Story about two intellects working in American Government. Very educational. History about Russian-American relationships through the eyes of US dedicated officials. Gives retrospective and prospective views, as well as the food for thoughts about politics. The book is for history lovers.

Two outstanding people in the US Government

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Benjamin Disraeli correctly stated that one must read biographies in order to grasp history. Never is this truism more deftly displayed than within the pages of this book.

Utterly Fascinating

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I lived through much of this, but knew headlines only. Fascinating to hear the inner workings

learned tons

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Hearing more about the people who helped shape history and how messy that process can be at times.
It starts a bit slow but is worth the investment.

An intimate look into cold war strategy

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