The period from the outset of World War I to the end of World War II was among the most significant in the history of the United States. Twice it was drawn into "foreign entanglements"-- wars it initially thought were no concern of its own and of which it tried to steer clear--only to realize that it could not stand aside. With each one, it geared up in record time, entered the fray massively, and was crucial to the outcome. Each war tested the American people and their leaders, and in each case the country came out of the conflagration stronger than before-and even more important-yet...

This Historical Dictionary of U.S. Diplomacy during the Cold War offers readers a comprehensive, accessible survey of the principal actors and events involved in the making of United States foreign policy during a crucial period in the nation's history. The Cold War saw the United States acquire superpower status, and to be closely involved in events around the globe. Foreign policy became a central issue in domestic politics. The confrontations with the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics and its allies and satellites, and with the forces of international communism dominated U.S....