Who is the author of 'The Long Peace'?

The author of 'The Long Peace' is John Lewis Gaddis.

What are the main themes in 'The Long Peace'?

The main themes in 'The Long Peace' include Political History, International Relations, Geopolitics, Politics and Current Affairs.

What genre is 'The Long Peace'?

'The Long Peace' is categorized as Politics and Current Affairs.

What is the main argument of 'The Long Peace' by John Lewis Gaddis?

The main argument of 'The Long Peace' by John Lewis Gaddis is that the period following World War II, particularly the Cold War era, represented a unique kind of stability and peace among the major powers, despite the underlying tensions. Gaddis contends that, contrary to earlier historical patterns where great powers often engaged in conflicts, the bipolar structure of international relations during the Cold War led to a lasting peace due to the presence of nuclear deterrence and the mutual understanding of the catastrophic consequences of war. He explores how this long peace has shaped contemporary geopolitics and its implications for future international relations.

How does Gaddis describe the concept of peace during the Cold War?

In 'The Long Peace,' John Lewis Gaddis describes the concept of peace during the Cold War as a fragile and complex phenomenon. He argues that the period after World War II was characterized by a unique type of stability, which he terms 'long peace.' This peace was not an absence of conflict but rather a strategic equilibrium between superpowers, particularly the United States and the Soviet Union. Gaddis asserts that this long peace was maintained through nuclear deterrence, the balance of power, and the establishment of international norms that discouraged large-scale wars. He highlights the paradox that while the Cold War era experienced numerous proxy wars and tensions, the superpowers managed to avoid direct conflict, contributing to a prolonged period of peace in the broader international system.

What themes related to international relations are explored in the book?

In 'The Long Peace,' John Lewis Gaddis explores several key themes related to international relations: Cold War Dynamics: Gaddis examines the ideological battle between capitalism and communism, elucidating how this rivalry shaped global politics and the nature of conflict during the Cold War. Deterrence and Security: The concept of deterrence is central to the book, highlighting how nations seek to avoid conflict through the threat of retaliatory measures, which Gaddis argues has led to a prolonged period of peace among great powers. The Role of Ideology: The author discusses how ideological considerations influence foreign policy decisions and the long-term implications of these ideologies on international stability. Diplomacy and Cooperation: Gaddis emphasizes the importance of diplomatic efforts in managing tensions and fostering cooperation among nations, indicating that negotiation can be more effective than military confrontation. Historical Lessons: The book reflects on historical precedents to draw lessons about the nature of peace and conflict, suggesting that understanding past international relations can inform current policy and strategy. Globalization and Interdependence: Gaddis touches on how economic interdependence and globalization have altered state interactions, leading to new forms of collaboration and conflict. Overall, 'The Long Peace' provides a nuanced view of how historical and ideological contexts shape contemporary international relations.

How does Gaddis support his assertions about the post-World War II era?

In 'The Long Peace,' John Lewis Gaddis supports his assertions about the post-World War II era by analyzing the geopolitical landscape, examining the context of the Cold War, and discussing the ideological shifts that occurred during this period. He uses historical examples and events, such as the establishment of international institutions like the United Nations, to illustrate how the major powers sought to avoid direct conflict despite their ideological differences. Gaddis also highlights the role of nuclear deterrence in maintaining peace and stability, arguing that the fear of mutually assured destruction created a paradoxical sense of security among superpowers. Furthermore, he discusses the economic interdependence that developed in the latter half of the 20th century, suggesting that trade and cooperation became crucial in mitigating tensions. Through a combination of historical analysis, case studies, and theoretical insights, Gaddis articulates the nuanced dynamics of peace and conflict in the post-war world, ultimately framing the era as one defined by a long-lasting, if fragile, peace.

What historical events does Gaddis reference to illustrate his points on peace and conflict?

In 'The Long Peace,' John Lewis Gaddis references several historical events to illustrate his points on peace and conflict, including: World War II and the Cold War: Gaddis discusses how the aftermath of WWII led to the creation of the bipolar world dominated by the United States and the Soviet Union, which, despite being marked by an ideological conflict, resulted in a sustained period of peace between these major powers, known as the Long Peace. The Cuban Missile Crisis (1962): This event exemplifies how close the world came to nuclear conflict, but also demonstrates the importance of diplomacy and communication in avoiding escalation, contributing to the overall theme of maintaining peace. The Korean War (1950-1953): Gaddis uses the Korean War to showcase the limitations of conventional warfare and how it shaped military strategies during the Cold War, influencing the balance of power and peace efforts. Vietnam War: The lessons learned from the Vietnam War are explored in terms of how conflicts can affect domestic politics and foreign policy, ultimately impacting the broader pursuit of global peace. European integration post-WWII: The establishment of institutions such as the European Union is highlighted as a significant move toward maintaining peace in Europe, showcasing a successful model of cooperation among former adversaries. These events and others in Gaddis's analysis reveal the complexities of achieving and maintaining peace amidst global conflict.

The Long Peace

In 'The Long Peace,' historian John Lewis Gaddis examines the unprecedented stability of the post-World War II era, delving into the geopolitical dynamics that have shaped international relations. With a focus on the interplay between military power and diplomatic negotiations, Gaddis challenges readers to rethink traditional narratives of conflict and resolution. He explores how the balance of power and nuclear deterrence have played crucial roles in maintaining peace among nuclear-armed states. This thought-provoking analysis not only sheds light on the past but also poses critical questions about the future of global peace. Prepare to be captivated by Gaddis's insights as he unravels the complexities of a remarkably long-lasting tranquility.

By John Lewis Gaddis

Published: 1987

""The absence of war is not peace; it is merely the stillness that precedes waves of conflict. True peace demands understanding, compromise, and an unwavering commitment to the common good.""

Politics and Current Affairs International Relations Political History Geopolitics

Start Listening

0:000:00

What Readers Say About This Book

In this fascinating new interpretation of Cold War history, John Lewis Gaddis focuses on how the United States and the Soviet Union have managed to get through more than four decades of Cold War confrontation without going to war with one another. Using recently-declassified American and British documents, Gaddis argues that the postwar international system has contained previously unsuspected elements of stability. This provocative reassessment of contemporary history--particularly as it relates to the current status ofSoviet-American relations--will certainly generate discussion, controversy, and important new perspectives on both past and present aspects of the age in which we live.

The Mike & Casey Show

Dive into captivating book discussions with our expert hosts

Key Points from The Long Peace

In "The Long Peace," John Lewis Gaddis argues that the era following World War II is marked by an unprecedented stability and a peace largely instigated by the balance of military power and the advent of nuclear deterrence. Gaddis illustrates this phenomenon with notable examples, such as the Cold War, during which the superpowers, the United States and the Soviet Union, avoided direct military confrontation primarily due to the fear of mutually assured destruction (MAD). The crises, including the Cuban Missile Crisis of 1962, serve as pivotal moments showing how the presence of nuclear weapons acted as a deterrent against escalated conflict, thus maintaining a tense yet stable peace. This argument challenges the traditional notions of human nature that advocate an inherent propensity for conflict, suggesting instead that the structure of international relations and military capability can engender a long-lasting peace. This thesis is significant as it shifts the discourse from a deterministic view of hostility between nations to a more nuanced understanding of how political structures and strategies can enable stability. Gaddis's insights connect to broader themes of deterrence theory and the role of international institutions, offering a compelling perspective on post-war geopolitical dynamics and the unexpected outcomes of such a power balance.

About the Author

John Lewis Gaddis

John Lewis Gaddis is a distinguished American historian and author, recognized for his influential works in the field of Cold War history. As a professor at Yale University, he has shaped the understanding of 20th-century international relations through his clear and engaging writing style. Gaddis is best known for his notable works, including "Strategies of Containment," "The Cold War: A New History," and "On Grand Strategy." His writing is characterized by its thoughtful analysis, narrative clarity, and synthesis of complex historical events, making intricate subjects accessible to a broad audience.

Book Details

Key information about the book.

Authors: John Lewis Gaddis
Published: January 1987
Publisher: New York : Oxford University Press
ISBN: 0195043367
Language: English
Pages: 350
Genres: Political HistoryInternational RelationsGeopoliticsPolitics and Current Affairs

Purchase Options

Buy on Amazon

Buy via BookShop

Support local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!

Similar books you might like →

Softwar

Matthew Symonds

Interventions

Kofi Atta Annan, Nader Mousavizadeh

Condemned to Repetition

Robert A. Pastor

War with Iraq

Washington's War on Nicaragua

Holly Sklar

Politicide

Baruch Kimmerling

The Marshall Plan

Michael J. Hogan

Collusion Across the Jordan

Avi Shlaim

Showing 8 of 30 similar books

Take your reading experience to the next level

Download our mobile app to enjoy your favorite books on the go. Get access to exclusive features, offline listening, and personalized recommendations.

Book Collections you might like →

Barack Obama's Book Recommendations

Barack Obama is the 44th President of the United States, serving from 2009 to 2017. As the first African American president, Obama’s leadership marked a historic moment in American history. His administration focused on healthcare reform, economic recovery from the Great Recession, and environmental policies. He is best known for the Affordable Care Act, as well as his efforts to expand civil rights and restore diplomatic relations with Cuba. Since leaving office, Obama has continued to engage in public life through his foundation, focusing on leadership development, civic engagement, and global issues.

View Collection

Ben Shapiro's Book Recommendations

Ben Shapiro is an American conservative political commentator, author, and lawyer, known for his sharp analytical skills and outspoken views. He graduated from UCLA at the age of 20 and Harvard Law School at 23, demonstrating his early intellectual prowess. Shapiro is the author of several best-selling books including "Bullies: How the Left's Culture of Fear and Intimidation Silences Americans" and "The Right Side of History: How Reason and Moral Purpose Made the West Great." He is the co-founder and editor emeritus of The Daily Wire, a popular conservative news and opinion website. Through his writing and media presence, Shapiro has significantly influenced contemporary political discourse in the United States.

View Collection

Jason Calacanis's Book Recommendations

Jason Calacanis is an influential American entrepreneur, angel investor, and author, best known for his early investments in companies like Uber and Robinhood. He co-founded the influential media company Weblogs, Inc., which was acquired by AOL in 2005. Calacanis authored the book "Angel: How to Invest in Technology Startups," providing valuable insights into the world of angel investing. He also hosts the popular podcast "This Week in Startups," where he interviews prominent figures in the tech industry. Calacanis is widely recognized for his impactful contributions to tech entrepreneurship and investment literature.

View Collection

David Heinemeier Hansson's Book Recommendations

David Heinemeier Hansson, also known as DHH, is a Danish programmer, entrepreneur, and author, best known as the creator of Ruby on Rails, a popular web application framework. Heinemeier Hansson is also a partner at Basecamp, a project management and collaboration software company he co-founded. His contributions to software development have earned him widespread recognition, with Ruby on Rails being used by thousands of developers and companies worldwide. Heinemeier Hansson is also a vocal advocate for remote work, simplicity in business, and sustainable work practices, ideas he explores in his bestselling books Rework and It Doesn’t Have to Be Crazy at Work. In addition to his work in tech, he is an accomplished race car driver, having competed in the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Heinemeier Hansson’s approach to work-life balance and entrepreneurship has made him a thought leader in the tech community, where he continues to challenge traditional business practices and advocate for more human-centered approaches to work

View Collection

Reid Hoffman's Book Recommendations

Reid Hoffman is an influential American entrepreneur, venture capitalist, and author, best known as the co-founder of LinkedIn, the professional networking platform that transformed online professional interactions. Hoffman has significantly impacted the business world through his investments in notable tech companies like Airbnb, Facebook, and Zynga. As an author, he has co-written several acclaimed books, including "The Start-Up of You" and "Blitzscaling," which provide strategic insights into career development and business growth. His works are celebrated for their practical advice and have become essential reading for aspiring entrepreneurs and business leaders. Hoffman's contributions extend beyond his literary efforts, as he remains a prominent figure in Silicon Valley, shaping the future of technology and innovation.

View Collection

James Mattis's Book Recommendations

James Mattis is a retired United States Marine Corps general and former Secretary of Defense, serving under President Donald Trump from 2017 to 2019. Mattis is known for his military leadership during the Iraq War and his command of U.S. Central Command, where he oversaw operations in the Middle East. He is widely respected for his intellectual rigor, strategic thinking, and emphasis on military ethics. After retiring from the military, Mattis has written books, including Call Sign Chaos, reflecting on his leadership experiences. His career has made him a highly regarded figure in both military and civilian leadership circles.

View Collection

Joe Rogan's Book Recommendations

Joe Rogan is a multifaceted American entertainer known primarily for his work as a comedian, podcast host, and commentator. He gained widespread recognition through his immensely popular podcast, "The Joe Rogan Experience," which has featured in-depth conversations with a diverse array of guests, including scientists, celebrities, and politicians. Though not primarily known for literature, Rogan has contributed to the field with his thought-provoking discussions that often explore philosophical and intellectual ideas. Additionally, he has authored the book "Mastering the Rubber Guard," which delves into Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu techniques, showcasing his expertise in martial arts. Rogan's influence extends beyond traditional media, impacting contemporary discourse through his unique blend of humor, curiosity, and critical thinking.

View Collection

Ray Dalio's Book Recommendations

Ray Dalio is the founder of Bridgewater Associates, one of the largest and most successful hedge funds in the world. He is also the author of the bestselling book Principles, where he outlines his philosophy on life, leadership, and investing. Ray is renowned for his unique approach to transparency, radical truth, and thoughtful disagreement within organizations. His insights into economics and investing have made him one of the most influential figures in the financial world. Dalio continues to be a thought leader in business, economics, and philanthropy.

View Collection

Showing 8 of 13 related collections

“"The absence of war is not peace; it is merely the stillness that precedes waves of conflict. True peace demands understanding, compromise, and an unwavering commitment to the common good."”

The Long Peace

By John Lewis Gaddis

Frequently Asked Questions

Explore Our Catalogue

Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.

Key Points from The Long Peace

In "The Long Peace," John Lewis Gaddis argues that the era following World War II is marked by an unprecedented stability and a peace largely instigated by the balance of military power and the advent of nuclear deterrence. Gaddis illustrates this phenomenon with notable examples, such as the Cold War, during which the superpowers, the United States and the Soviet Union, avoided direct military confrontation primarily due to the fear of mutually assured destruction (MAD). The crises, including the Cuban Missile Crisis of 1962, serve as pivotal moments showing how the presence of nuclear weapons acted as a deterrent against escalated conflict, thus maintaining a tense yet stable peace. This argument challenges the traditional notions of human nature that advocate an inherent propensity for conflict, suggesting instead that the structure of international relations and military capability can engender a long-lasting peace. This thesis is significant as it shifts the discourse from a deterministic view of hostility between nations to a more nuanced understanding of how political structures and strategies can enable stability. Gaddis's insights connect to broader themes of deterrence theory and the role of international institutions, offering a compelling perspective on post-war geopolitical dynamics and the unexpected outcomes of such a power balance.

The Long Peace

Start Listening

What Readers Say About This Book

The Mike & Casey Show

Key Points from The Long Peace

About the Author

John Lewis Gaddis

Book Details

Purchase Options

Similar books you might like →

Softwar

Interventions

Condemned to Repetition

War with Iraq

Washington's War on Nicaragua

Politicide

The Marshall Plan

Collusion Across the Jordan

Take your reading experience to the next level

Book Collections you might like →

Barack Obama's Book Recommendations

Ben Shapiro's Book Recommendations

Jason Calacanis's Book Recommendations

David Heinemeier Hansson's Book Recommendations

Reid Hoffman's Book Recommendations

James Mattis's Book Recommendations

Joe Rogan's Book Recommendations

Ray Dalio's Book Recommendations

Frequently Asked Questions

Explore Our Catalogue

Genres

Genres

Genres

Featured Collections

The Mike & Casey Show

Key Points from The Long Peace

Frequently Asked Questions