Brendon, Piers

Examines the major historical events of the 1930s as they occurred in the United States, Germany, Italy, France, Britain, Japan, Russia, and Spain, focusing on political and economic circumstances; and tells the stories of some of the people who played significant roles in the decade.

Examines the contradictory interpretations of Dwight David Eisenhower's effectiveness as a leader and analyzes his paradoxical personality--one possessed of strong passions but a weak character, noble instincts but irresolute will, and generous impluses but selfish motives.

Chronicles the history of the British Empire from 1781 to 1997, discussing how the empire recovered from its loss in the American Revolution to develop interests and colonies throughout the globe, and identifying the weaknesses that led to its decline following World War II.