Using extensive materials from both published and private sources, this concise text focuses on U.S./Soviet diplomacy to explain the causes and consequences of

The conflict between Russia and America shaped the world for over four decades. Both were universalist powers – they wanted every country in the world to copy

“A creative, carefully researched, and incisive analysis of U.S. strategy during the long struggle against the Soviet Union.” —Stephen M. Walt, Foreign Po

“[Matlock’s] account of Reagan’s achievement as the nation’s diplomat in chief is a public service.”—The New York Times Book Review “Engrossing .