How Sanctions Fail US Policymakers

In *The Abandonment of the West*, Michael Kimmage explores the rise and decline of the idea of 'the West' in American foreign policy. The book traces how this concept, once central to U.S. diplomacy, began to fragment after the Cold War. Kimmage argues that reviving this idea is crucial for addressing contemporary global challenges and fostering unity within the U.S.

In this book, Ivan Krastev and Stephen Holmes argue that the supposed end of communism marked the beginning of an age of autocracy. They contend that the drive for democracy in Eastern Europe after 1989 led to a bitter repudiation of liberalism due to the painful process of 'copycat Westernization. ' This mimicry of Western institutions and values, especially after the Soviet era, resulted in a deep-seated resentment and a political backlash against liberalism. The authors also examine how this phenomenon is linked to the rise of populist and nationalist movements in both Eastern Europe and the United States, including the Trump presidency. They discuss the roles of Russia, China, and other global actors in this context and argue that Western defenders of liberal democracy need to offer a more realistic vision of world order.

Parting the Waters chronicles the struggle for racial equality in America from the twilight of the Eisenhower years through King’s fiery political baptism, the ascension of John F. Kennedy, and the dawning of the New South. The book covers significant events such as the Montgomery bus boycott, the Freedom Rides, the Birmingham campaign, and the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom. It provides a vivid, panoramic portrait of America during this transformative period, highlighting the roles of key figures including Martin Luther King Jr., the Kennedy brothers, and J. Edgar Hoover.

In this ambitious one-volume history, Jill Lepore examines the origins and rise of the United States, focusing on the core ideas of political equality, natural rights, and the sovereignty of the people. The book spans over five centuries, from 1492 to the present, and delves into various themes such as the legacy of slavery, the persistence of inequality, and the impact of technological change. Lepore's narrative is characterized by its elegant prose and comprehensive coverage of American politics, law, journalism, and technology, highlighting both well-known and lesser-known figures in American history.