A comprehensive five-volume reference on the defining conflict of the second half of the 20th century, covering all aspects of the Cold War as it influenced events around the world.

• 1,299 entries covering all facets of the Cold War from its origins to its aftermath, including all political, diplomatic, military, social, economic, and cultural aspects of the conflict

• Over 200 internationally recognized contributors from around the world, many writing about events and issues from the perspective of their country of origin

• Over 175 original documents?a collection that draws heavily on recently opened files from archives in China, Eastern Europe, and the former Soviet Union

• More than 470 powerful images and illustrations plus 47 maps detailing specific military conflicts and movements of various groups

• Indexes that are both alphabetically and categorically organized, covering people, places, events, weapons systems, and more