In this long-awaited sequel to his acclaimed Russia's Road to the Cold War (1979), Vojtech Mastny offers a thorough history of the early years of the Cold War, drawing upon his extensive research in newly opened Soviet archives. Just as the earlier volume offered the definitive portrait of Joseph Stalin's foreign policy during World War II, The Cold War and Soviet Insecurity affords readers an equally superb account of Stalin's foreign policy during his last years. Combining important new data with the fascinating insights of one of our leading authorities on Soviet affairs, this book illuminates a crucial period in recent world history.

Vojtech Mastny has taught history and international relations at Columbia University, the University of Illinois, and The Johns Hopkins University School of Advanced International Studies. His many books include The Helsinki Process and the Reintegration of Europe, 1986-1991 (1992) and The Czechs under Nazi Rule (1971), which won the Clarke F. Ansley award.