The United States struggled for nearly a decade to forge a coherent nuclear deterrence strategy in the aftermath of World War II. This study meticulously details the complex reasons behind this prolonged development, drawing on the expertise of two knowledgeable historians. It examines the inherent challenges and difficulties associated with relying on nuclear weapons for national security, offering crucial insights into the early nuclear era.

This book is regarded as essential reading for understanding the formative years of U.S. nuclear policy. The authors, described as careful and well-informed historians, provide a comprehensive explanation for the slow development of a coherent nuclear deterrence strategy. The work is noted for its thoroughness and its critical examination of the inherent challenges in relying on nuclear weapons for security.