"In this indespensable work of analysis and reflection, Sherry puts microscholarship to shame with his grand generalizing (and) reworks the national narrative, arguing powerfully for the primary of militarization.... A remarkable achievement". -- Robert Andersen, Chicago Tribune

"A remarkable tour de force.... At times sparkling, sometimes frustratingly provocative, always stimulating". -- Richard Overy, Sunday Times (London)

"Anyone who wants to come to terms with the complexity and meaning of American history in the twentieth century must confront this book. An impressive achievement indeed". -- Stanley Kutler, Times Higher Education Supplement

"Sherry's book can be read as an opinionated survey of American history since the 1930s, or as an extended essay on the nature and meaning of twentieth-century American life. Either way it works marvelously". -- H. W. Brands, Political Science Quarterly

"With a sharp eye for paradox and irony, Michael Sherry has given us an absolutely fresh perspective on our last half-century in a volume notable for its intellectual reach, subtle analysis, and graceful exposition". -- Michael Parrish, Reviews in American History