Unmaking Detente: Yugoslavia, the United States, and the Global Cold War, 1968-1980

This book explores the 1970s Cold War through the lens of Yugoslavia's activism in the Global South and its relations with the superpowers. It shows how Yugoslavia's anxiety about a "new Yalta" led it to take a disruptive role in détente, promoting its revolutionary model as a distinctive form of political, social, and economic organization. The author analyzes the complex interactions between Yugoslavia and the world, highlighting the opportunities and challenges posed by détente and the Cold War.

Format: Hardback
Length: 304 pages
Publication date: 15 July 2022
Publisher: Lexington Books

This captivating book delves into the intricate tapestry of global history during the 1970s, focusing specifically on the era of the Cold War and its profound impact on Yugoslavia. Through the lens of Yugoslavia's activism in the Global South and its complex relations with the superpowers, the author unveils a compelling narrative that sheds light on the intricate dynamics of this pivotal period.

The author begins by examining Yugoslavia's deep-seated anxiety over the potential resurgence of a "new Yalta," a reference to the 1945 agreement that divided Europe into spheres of influence. Recognizing the superpowers' attempts to divide the world, Yugoslavia embarked on a disruptive path, seeking to undermine their agreements and promote a unique revolutionary model as an alternative to the prevailing systems.

Yugoslavia's global activism in the 1970s was a testament to its unwavering commitment to challenging the status quo. It sought to undermine alleged superpowers agreements, advocating for a more equitable and peaceful world order. The country's activism extended beyond mere rhetoric, as it actively engaged in various international initiatives and organizations, including the Non-Aligned Movement and the United Nations.

However, the author also delves into the limitations of Yugoslavia's global activism. Despite its best efforts, the country faced numerous challenges and obstacles, including geopolitical tensions, economic sanctions, and internal political turmoil. The book explores the complex interplay between Yugoslavia and the world, highlighting the opportunities and problems that détente and the Cold War in the 1970s offered to and imposed on a small state in the Balkans.

Drawing on a rich and diverse range of sources, including archives in the former Yugoslavia, the United States, and Great Britain, the author crafts a comprehensive and insightful analysis of this critical period. The book sheds light on the web of opportunities, challenges, and complexities that characterized the era, providing a valuable contribution to our understanding of global history and the complex dynamics of the Cold War.

In conclusion, this book offers a fresh and insightful perspective on the global history of the 1970s, focusing on the role of Yugoslavia in the Global South and its complex relations with the superpowers. Through meticulous research and analysis, the author provides a comprehensive account of Yugoslavia's global activism, exploring its motivations, challenges, and the broader geopolitical context of the Cold War. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of this pivotal period and the enduring legacy of Yugoslavia's global activism.

Weight: 635g
Dimension: 225 x 162 x 28 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781793649218