FROM AMAZON: A captivating blend of personal biography and public drama, The Wise Men introduces six close friends who shaped the role their country would play in the dangerous years following World War II.
They were the original best and brightest, whose towering intellects, outsize personalities, and dramatic actions would bring order to the postwar chaos and leave a legacy that dominates American policy to this day.
The Wise Men shares the stories of Averell Harriman, the freewheeling diplomat and Roosevelt’s special envoy to Churchill and Stalin; Dean Acheson, the secretary of state who was more responsible for the Truman Doctrine than Truman and for the Marshall Plan than General Marshall; George Kennan, self-cast outsider and intellectual darling of the Washington elite; Robert Lovett, assistant secretary of war, undersecretary of state, and secretary of defense throughout the formative years of the Cold War; John McCloy, one of the nation’s most influential private citizens; and Charles Bohlen, adroit diplomat and ambassador to the Soviet Union.
The Wise Men
“The Wise Men: Six Friends and the World They Made” is a non-fiction book written by Walter Isaacson. It was first published in 1986 and has since become a classic in political history. The book explores the lives and careers of six influential individuals who played a significant role in shaping American foreign policy after World War II. With a total of 873 pages, this book is an extensive and in-depth account of the lives of these remarkable men. It is published by Simon & Schuster.
Walter Isaacson, born on May 20, 1952, is an American author and journalist. He is widely known for his biographical works, including “Steve Jobs” and “Leonardo da Vinci.” Isaacson’s main focus is on the lives of innovative and influential individuals who have made a significant impact on the world. He brings his expertise in history and journalism to provide readers with well-researched and captivating narratives. His writing style is known for being engaging and accessible to a wide range of readers.
“The Wise Men” delves into the lives of six influential figures: Dean Acheson, Averell Harriman, George Kennan, Charles Bohlen, Robert Lovett, and John McCloy. These men were key players in American foreign policy during the critical years of the Cold War. The book takes readers on a journey through their lives, from their childhoods to their rise to power and their eventual roles in shaping American diplomacy. It explores their relationships, shared experiences, and the decisions they made that had far-reaching consequences.
Main Takeaways of The Wise Men: Six Friends and the World They Made
The Importance of Personal Relationships in Politics: One of the main takeaways from “The Wise Men” is the significance of personal relationships in the world of politics. The book highlights how the strong bonds between these six men influenced their decision-making and helped shape American foreign policy.
We trusted each other implicitly. We all knew that our personal relationships and friendships were important to the conduct of the nation’s business.
Dean Acheson
The Long-Term Impact of Cold War Policies: Isaacson’s book explores the long-term consequences of the policies implemented by these men during the Cold War era. It provides insights into the origins of the Cold War and the decisions that shaped the geopolitical landscape of the time.
Our policy is not directed against Russia, but against the Kremlin rulers who have replaced Russian internationalism with Moscow imperialism.
George Kennan
The Complexity of International Relations: “The Wise Men” sheds light on the complexities of international relations and the challenges faced by policymakers. It emphasizes the need for strategic thinking, diplomacy, and an understanding of global dynamics to navigate the ever-changing geopolitical landscape.
Foreign policy is not a popularity contest.
Robert Lovett
Famous People’s Saying about the Book:
“The Wise Men” has received praise from various notable individuals, including former Secretary of State Henry Kissinger, who described it as “an indispensable book for understanding the formulation of American foreign policy.” Historian David McCullough also commended Isaacson’s work, stating that it is “a fascinating and important study.”
Other Books with Similar Ideas:
- “The Best and the Brightest” by David Halberstam (Published in 1972)
- “The Cold War: A New History” by John Lewis Gaddis (Published in 2005)
- “The Long Peace: Inquiries into the History of the Cold War” by John Lewis Gaddis (Published in 1987)
Other Books with Opposite Ideas:
- “The Limits of Power: The End of American Exceptionalism” by Andrew J. Bacevich (Published in 2008)
- “The Cold War: A Very Short Introduction” by Robert J. McMahon (Published in 2003)
- “The Cold War: A Global History” by Odd Arne Westad (Published in 2005)
In conclusion, “The Wise Men: Six Friends and the World They Made” offers a captivating and comprehensive exploration of the lives and influences of six key figures in American foreign policy. Walter Isaacson’s meticulous research and engaging writing style make this book a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the post-World War II era and the shaping of American diplomacy.
My Goodreads Review:
The Wise Men: Six Friends and the World They Made by Walter IsaacsonMy rating: 4 of 5 stars
“The Wise Men: Six Friends and the World They Made” is an enthralling account of the lives and influence of six exceptional individuals who played key roles in shaping post-World War II America. With captivating storytelling and meticulous research, the book offers a deep insight into the geopolitical landscape and the friendship that united them. A thought-provoking read that sheds light on the profound impact these wise men had on the course of history.
Quite a long read, but I now know the whys and hows of the Cold War and how the USA developed their foreign policy in combating the USSR’s brand of communism.
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