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Dark Sun: The Making of the Hydrogen Bomb
736 pages, 1996
In this groundbreaking work, Pulitzer Prize-winning author of The Making of the Atomic Bomb provides a definitive, often shocking portrait of how and why the United States decided to create the hydrogen bomb that would dominate world politics for more than forty years.
Based on secret files in the United States and the former Soviet Union, this monumental work of history discloses how politicians and scientists created what would become known as the Cold War.
In Dark Sun, Richard Rhodes takes us on a journey through the creation of the hydrogen bomb. He explores the scientific breakthroughs, political decisions, and moral dilemmas that led to its development. It's a fascinating look into a pivotal moment in history.
Rhodes doesn't just focus on the bomb itself, but also the people who played crucial roles in its creation. From Oppenheimer to Teller, he gives us a glimpse into the minds of these brilliant scientists, their motivations, and their internal conflicts.
The book also provides a deep dive into the political climate of the Cold War era. It shows how the fear of Soviet power and the race for nuclear supremacy influenced the decision to build the hydrogen bomb.
Rhodes doesn't shy away from the ethical questions surrounding the creation of the hydrogen bomb. He explores the moral responsibility of scientists and the devastating consequences of their inventions. It's a thought-provoking look into the darker side of scientific progress.
Finally, Dark Sun examines the lasting impact of the hydrogen bomb on global politics, warfare, and society. It's a sobering reminder of the power of human ingenuity and the potential for destruction when it's used irresponsibly.