I N T R E P X

“Folly and Glory: America, Russia, and Political Warfare 1945–2020” by Tim Weiner is an exploration of the covert battles and political machinations between the United States and Russia from the end of World War II to the present day. Weiner delves into the espionage, propaganda, and political strategies that have defined this long-standing rivalry, highlighting key events and figures in this complex history.

Here’s a chapter-by-chapter summary of “Folly and Glory”:

Chapter 1: The End of World War II and the Birth of the Cold War

This chapter sets the stage by describing the world at the end of World War II, focusing on the emerging tensions between the United States and the Soviet Union. Weiner explains how the wartime alliance quickly dissolved into distrust and competition, laying the groundwork for the Cold War.

Chapter 2: The Rise of the CIA and KGB

Weiner explores the creation of the CIA and the KGB, the intelligence agencies that would become central players in the Cold War. The chapter covers the early missions and the significant role of espionage in the struggle between the two superpowers.

Chapter 3: The Red Scare and McCarthyism

This chapter examines the impact of the Red Scare and McCarthyism on American society. It discusses how fear of communism permeated American politics and culture, leading to widespread paranoia and the persecution of suspected communists.

Chapter 4: The Cuban Missile Crisis

The Cuban Missile Crisis is detailed in this chapter as one of the most dangerous confrontations of the Cold War. Weiner describes the tense standoff between the United States and the Soviet Union, which brought the world to the brink of nuclear war.

Chapter 5: Detente and the Thawing of Relations

Weiner discusses the period of detente in the 1970s when relations between the U.S. and the Soviet Union temporarily improved. He covers key events like the SALT treaties and the Helsinki Accords, which were efforts to reduce tensions and the risk of conflict.

Chapter 6: The Soviet Invasion of Afghanistan

This chapter covers the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan in 1979 and the U.S. response, including the arming of Afghan resistance fighters. Weiner illustrates how this conflict became a critical front in the Cold War and had long-lasting effects on both superpowers.

Chapter 7: Reagan, the Arms Race, and the End of the Cold War

Weiner explores the Reagan administration’s aggressive stance towards the Soviet Union, including the escalation of the arms race. He discusses how Reagan’s policies, combined with internal Soviet issues, contributed to the end of the Cold War.

Chapter 8: The Collapse of the Soviet Union

This chapter describes the events leading up to the collapse of the Soviet Union, including economic struggles, political unrest, and the failed coup attempt in 1991. Weiner explains how the dissolution of the USSR marked a significant shift in global power dynamics.

Chapter 9: Post-Cold War Russia and the Rise of Putin

Weiner delves into the post-Cold War era, focusing on Russia’s struggles with corruption, economic instability, and the rise of Vladimir Putin. The chapter highlights Putin’s efforts to restore Russia’s power and his adversarial stance towards the West.

Chapter 10: The New Cold War: Cyber Warfare and Political Manipulation

This chapter examines the resurgence of tensions between the United States and Russia in the 21st century, with a focus on cyber warfare, election interference, and disinformation campaigns. Weiner details how these modern tactics have replaced traditional espionage.

Chapter 11: The Trump Administration and Russian Interference

Weiner analyzes the complex relationship between the Trump administration and Russia, including the allegations of Russian interference in the 2016 U.S. presidential election. He discusses the broader implications of these actions on American democracy.

Chapter 12: The Ongoing Struggle and the Future of U.S.-Russia Relations

The final chapter looks at the current state of U.S.-Russia relations and speculates on the future of this enduring rivalry. Weiner suggests that the lessons of the past are crucial for understanding the challenges ahead in this ongoing geopolitical struggle.

These summaries offer a brief overview of the key themes and events covered in each chapter of “Folly and Glory.” Weiner’s book provides a detailed and nuanced look at the complex relationship between the United States and Russia over the last 75 years.