reconstruction (1939-1951)

The end of World War II was met with cheering crowds and many celebrations. The period of anarchy and civil war that also followed the end of World War II has been forgotten. Across Europe more than thirty million people had been killed in the war and the infastructure, and institutions we take for granted, such as police, transport and governments, were either absent or seriously compromised. With collapsing economies everywhere, the entire European population was on the brink of starvation. Although the actual war was over the fight to rebuild Europe was only beginning.

Traces the rapid fall of imperialism and the rise of new nations. Follows the intensifying Cold War and its flashpoints in Berlin, Korea, Cuba, and Vietnam. Highlights the growing power of the civil rights movement, feminism and the Youth Explosion.

Describes the chaos and destruction left in the wake of World War II, with cities and towns destroyed and millions killed or left homeless.

Profusely illustrated text depicts the aftermath of World War II in Europe, including the detentions and trials and the refugee problems.

Presents a view of World War II as it was fought from the White House, exploring the relationships of U.S. presidents Franklin Roosevelt and Harry Truman with such figures as Winston Churchill and Joseph Stalin, and showing how political considerations influenced wartime strategies.

Chronicles the history of Europe since World War II, focusing on attempts to unify the continent's many nationalities and ideologies, with discussion of Cold War politics, the influence of the U.S. and the Soviet Union, and other topics.