The Dead Hand

The Dead Hand by David E. Hoffman is a gripping narrative that delves into the intense and perilous final decade of the Cold War. This riveting account unveils not only the behind-the-scenes strategic manoeuvres and political drama between the United States and the Soviet Union but also shines a light on the covert operations and the unrelenting arms race that brought the world to the brink of catastrophe. Hoffman meticulously chronicles the extraordinary efforts and heroic deeds of a diverse cast of scientists, soldiers, diplomats, and spies who played pivotal roles in steering the superpowers towards de-escalation and eventual disarmament.

This Pulitzer Prize-winning investigative history takes readers through the high-stakes diplomacy of the 1980s, detailing the nuanced and often tense interactions between key figures such as Ronald Reagan and Mikhail Gorbachev. Drawing on exclusive interviews from both sides of the Iron Curtain as well as classified documents from deep within the Kremlin, Hoffman presents the first comprehensive and intensely dramatic account of the US-Soviet arms race and its resolution.

The narrative also covers the technological advancements and clandestine projects that fuelled the arms race, including the development of nuclear, biological, and chemical weapons. Hoffman's precise and engaging storytelling allows readers to understand the broader geopolitical implications of these events while maintaining a human perspective on the individuals involved.

David E. Hoffman is a Contributing Editor at the Washington Post and serves on its Editorial board. He began his career at the Post in 1982, covering the presidencies of Reagan and Bush. Over the years, Hoffman has worked in various capacities, including diplomatic correspondent and Jerusalem correspondent, providing in-depth coverage of pivotal moments like the Oslo peace accords. As the Moscow bureau chief from 1995 to 2001, he gained invaluable insights into post-Soviet Russia, which significantly inform his work in The Dead Hand.

Upon his return to Washington, Hoffman served as Foreign editor and Assistant Managing Editor for Foreign news. His extensive experience and expertise have also seen him involved in several FRONTLINE documentaries such as "Hunting the Nightmare Bacteria" (2013), "The Trouble With Antibiotics" (2014), and "The Trouble with Chicken" (2015). He also contributed as a reporter for "Putin's Revenge" (2017), further cementing his reputation as a distinguished journalist and seasoned observer of international relations.

The Dead Hand is a must-read for anyone interested in Cold War history, global politics, and espionage. Hoffman’s in-depth research and compelling narrative make this book an essential addition to any history aficionado’s collection.