Volume II of The Cambridge History of the Cold War examines the developments that made the Cold War a long-lasting international system during the 1960s and 1970s. A team of leading scholars explains how the Cold War seemed to stabilize after the Cuban Missile Crisis in 1962 and how this sense of increased stability evolved into the détente era of the early 1970s. The authors outline how conflicts in the Third World, as well as the interests and ideologies of the superpowers, eroded the détente process. They delve into the social and economic roots of the conflict, illuminate processes of integration and disintegration, analyze the arms race and explore the roles of intelligence, culture and national identities. Discussing the newest findings on US and Soviet foreign policy and examining crises inside and outside of Europe, this authoritative volume will define Cold War studies for years to come.

Review of the set:'There has never been a Cold War history like it; everything about it is monumental … In total, the volumes represent a successful interconnected attempt at describing the Cold War in full.'

Jost Dülffer Source: H-Soz-u-Kult

Review of the set:'The Cambridge History of the Cold War (CHCW) marks a coming of age for Cold War studies. This multi-volume compilation provides a synthesis of the 'New Cold War History'. It is a signal moment in the evolution of the field.'

Mike Sewell Source: H-Diplo

Review of the set:'… if (I) could recommend just three books to a reader with no prior knowledge of the Cold War - the average undergraduate, say - it would likely be this series. The breadth and depth of coverage, in disciplinary and geographical terms, is unparalleled.'

David Milne Source: H-Diplo

'The geographic span of the book is particularly impressive, covering many regions and countries, including those not traditionally integrated into the narrative … In this way, the authors combine the thematic-chronological approach with a regional context, significantly expanding our concept of the Cold War and its impact on countries and peoples.'

Ilya Gaiduk Source: H-Diplo

'… this fine volume brings together leading scholars in the field to present in clear and perceptive chapters the latest knowledge and the current state of debate on the Cold War. There is no better place to begin to understand this conflict.'

Michael Hopkins Source: H-Diplo

'… a sophisticated and lucid history of the Cold War during its second phase…'

Sandra Scanlon Source: H-Diplo