The Cold War is often painted as a noble struggle, with America heroically resisting Communism across the globe. Reckoning: Vietnam and America’s Cold War Experience, 1945-1991 dismantles this comforting myth, revealing a far more complex and often troubling reality.

This book challenges the mainstream portrayal of key events—from Truman’s handling of Soviet espionage to the brutal campaigns in Korea and Vietnam. It critically examines the decisions of American leaders, revealing how fear, miscalculation, and political pressure shaped U.S. foreign policy. Reckoning argues that condemning America’s war in Southeast Asia while celebrating Cold War victories is intellectually inconsistent—suggesting that the very foundation of the Truman Doctrine must be reevaluated.

With a sharp, evidence-driven narrative, Reckoning urges readers to question long-standing assumptions, confront inconvenient truths, and view history through an unbiased, analytical lens. Whether you are a historian, a student of political science, or someone curious about Cold War history, this book will challenge and expand your understanding of America’s global role during the 20th century.