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The Wise Men

Six Friends and the World They Made
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( 4,182 ratings, 200 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
The Wise Men by Walter Isaacson and Evan Thomas delves into the lives and careers of six influential American statesmen who shaped the nation's foreign policy during and after World War II. Through their strategic decisions and diplomatic acumen, they helped define the global order in the mid-20th century, navigating complex political landscapes with remarkable insight and foresight.
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

This book may appeal to you if you're interested in American history and foreign policy, as it offers an in-depth look at the influential figures who shaped U.S. strategy during the Cold War. It's well-researched and brings the personalities and pivotal moments to life, making it engaging for history enthusiasts.

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The Wise Men

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Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

The Wise Men by Walter Isaacson and Evan Thomas is an illuminating study of post-World War II American diplomacy, focusing on six influential figures who played pivotal roles in shaping the modern geopolitical landscape. This compelling narrative provides an in-depth exploration of the lives and careers of Averell Harriman, Dean Acheson, George Kennan, Robert Lovett, John McCloy, and Charles Bohlen. Through their combined insights and actions, these men helped establish the enduring structures of the Cold War world order, offering a comprehensive portrayal of their determined efforts to bring stability to a world reeling from conflict.

Averell Harriman, a freewheeling diplomat, acted as President Roosevelt’s special envoy to Winston Churchill and Joseph Stalin. An essential player in forging alliances, his tact and resilience were crucial in diplomatic negotiations. Dean Acheson, the Secretary of State, had an instrumental role in the implementation of the Truman Doctrine and the execution of the Marshall Plan, asserting a proactive stance against the spread of communism in Europe—which was more significant than the contributions of President Truman or General Marshall themselves.

George Kennan, renowned for his 'Containment' strategy, provided the intellectual groundwork for America's approach to the Soviet Union. His ideas directly influenced the country's foreign policy, guiding strategic interactions in the fraught landscape of the Cold War. Meanwhile, Robert Lovett served with distinction as assistant secretary of war, undersecretary of state, and later secretary of defence, shaping both military and diplomatic efforts during this tumultuous era.

John McCloy stands out as one of the nation’s most influential private citizens, whose behind-the-scenes efforts had far-reaching impacts. Often referred to as the 'Chairman of the American Establishment,' McCloy’s influence extended across various facets of national and international policy-making. Lastly, Charles Bohlen, an adroit diplomat, particularly distinguished himself with his service as ambassador to the Soviet Union. His nuanced understanding of Soviet politics and culture was invaluable during critical diplomatic engagements.

The Wise Men masterfully intertwines the personal and professional lives of these statesmen, unveiling the profound impact they had not only on American foreign policy but also on global history. Isaacson and Thomas provide an intricately detailed and rigorously researched account, rich with historical context and intimate anecdotes, making it an essential read for anyone seeking to understand the complexities of postwar diplomacy and the individuals who architected the modern world.

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

The Wise Men by Walter Isaacson and Evan Thomas offers in-depth insights and new information about key figures and events that influenced the first four decades of the Cold War. It is praised for its detailed portrayal of the era and is considered essential for understanding the postwar world. The book is recognised for its richly textured narrative and historical depth.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9781476728827

Publisher: Simon & Schuster

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 04 June 2013

Country: United States

Imprint: Simon & Schuster

Edition: Reissue

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 51.0mm

Width: 156.0mm

Height: 235.0mm

Weight: 898g

Pages: 864

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About the Author

Walter Isaacson is the bestselling author of biographies of Jennifer Doudna, Leonardo da Vinci, Steve Jobs, Benjamin Franklin, and Albert Einstein. He is a professor of history at Tulane and was CEO of the Aspen Institute, chair of CNN, and editor of Time. He was awarded the National Humanities Medal in 2023. Visit him at Isaacson.Tulane.edu.

Evan Thomas is the author of ten books, including the New York Times bestsellers JOHN PAUL JONES, SEA OF THUNDER, and FIRST: SANDRA DAY O’CONNOR. Thomas was a writer, correspondent, and editor for thirty-three years at Time and Newsweek, including ten years as Newsweek’s Washington bureau chief. He appears regularly on many TV and radio talk shows. Thomas has taught at Harvard and Princeton.

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