'Not many books about the past illuminate the present, but this is one of them, and it deserves to be widely read.' - Richard Gott, The Guardian

'An astonishing amount of information, and of thought-provoking ideas, is compressed into a remarkably small amount of space...the standard of accuracy and clarity is very high, the style of presentation admirable. The author should - again - be congratulated.' - Alec Nove, New Society

'In this short and lively account he sets down exactly what he thinks took place, with perfect impartiality...there could hardly be a better introduction to one of the principal subjects in current affairs.' -Economist

'Here we have an absolutely first-class work in its own right...Carr will be remembered and consulted as long as his subject remains interesting, which is likely to be for a fair while yet.' - Ken Coates, Tribune

'Every statement, indeed every sentence is based upon a minute, careful and well documented study.' - H.S. Ferns, Birmingham Post