Kultur und Politik im Kalten Krieg und darüber hinaus Reihe

The book challenges the prevalent myth of drug addiction among American soldiers during the Vietnam War, arguing that it was largely exaggerated and politically motivated. Jeremy Kuzmarov reveals that while alcohol was the primary substance used by GIs, marijuana and heroin did not have the widespread presence often assumed. He critiques both hawks and antiwar activists for perpetuating the addiction narrative, linking it to broader cultural and political agendas. The Nixon administration's response to these concerns led to the establishment of the "War on Drugs," shaping future U.S. drug policy.

Set against the backdrop of the Cold War, the book explores the controversy surrounding a groundbreaking 1962 documentary about a Berlin Wall tunnel escape. Produced by NBC's Reuven Frank, the film sparked intense reactions from both sides of the Iron Curtain and raised ethical questions within the journalism community. Despite winning three Emmys, it faced pressure from the U.S. Department of State for its content, highlighting the tensions between media, government, and public sentiment during a critical historical moment.

Focusing on Betty Friedan's early life and career, this biography reveals that her commitment to feminism was shaped by experiences beyond her portrayal as a discontented housewife. Daniel Horowitz utilizes extensive research, including Friedan's own papers, to explore her formative years in Peoria and her activism during college and as a writer for radical labor journals. By placing Friedan in a broader cultural context, the book challenges traditional views of "second wave" feminism and uncovers connections to its historical roots.

An "absorbing and provocative" ( "New York Times" ) autopsy of a once-vital all-American myth: the cherished belief that elimination of a less-than human enemy was necessary to achieve our national destiny."An extraordinarily original work that places postwar American history in an entirely new perspective. Anyone who wishes to introduce students to post-1945 American culture should assign this wonderful book."--John Dower, MIT, author of "War Without Mercy" "Absorbing and provocative." "--New York Times" "Full of brilliancies, this "tour de force" is one of those rare books that can change the way we see."--Todd Gitlin, author of "The Sixties" "A perfect book to use in twentieth-century history courses."--Elaine Tyler May, author of "Homeward Bound"