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 20th Century Arms Control Historical International Relations Modern Politicians Politics & Activism Politics & Government World Cold War Russia Imperialism Soviet Union Socialism Vietnam War War Middle East Interwar Period

Editorial reviews

Working in the intricate web of American diplomacy during the Cold War, Paul Nitze and George Kennan became legendary. This double biography keeps them entwined like thorny roses of two colors on a trellis. Their accomplishments in designing and managing U.S./Soviet policy generate a riveting account that is logically organized, eloquently written, and well documented. Michael Prichard, one of the best nonfiction audio narrators, lifts the prose from the page to reality with his ability to enrich it with nuance and fluidity. He creates identifiable character voices for the principals without sounding comedic. Prichard's method of allowing the humor and satire to speak for themselves encourages listeners to smile at whatever they wish. The production won't disappoint.

Critic reviews

"A gently critical assessment of two influential shapers of U.S. foreign policy.... Fascinating." ( Kirkus)

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

learned tons

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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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