This biography examines the life and impact of Henry Kissinger, a pivotal figure in 20th-century American foreign policy. Bruce Mazlish, a historian, draws upon extensive research to present a comprehensive analysis of Kissinger's career, from his academic beginnings to his influential roles as National Security Advisor and Secretary of State. The book aims to understand the complex motivations and consequences of Kissinger's strategic decisions that shaped global events.

Published in 1976, Bruce Mazlish's biography of Henry Kissinger was a significant contribution to the understanding of a highly influential and controversial figure in American foreign policy. The work likely offered a detailed, scholarly assessment of Kissinger's career, providing context for his strategic decisions and their global ramifications. As a contemporary biography written during Kissinger's active years, it would have been scrutinized for its insights into his complex legacy.