At the end of the Word War II the U.S. Navy was the most powerful navy the world had ever seen. Post conflict, in true American fashion, the military went through a chaotic and massive demobilization. The development of nuclear weapons was a game changer and led to many questions and disputes between the military branches. In what circumstances would they be used? Who would deploy them? There were some that thought there was no need for a Navy, since they could “theoretically” be destroyed with nuclear strikes. There was also the question of the application of nuclear energy for propulsion systems. Would it be safe?
With the United States’ former allies the Soviet Union and China making aggressive moves in Europe and Asia it was imperative that the United States government come up with an effective strategy to counter this threat. Hornfisher covers this critical time period in our nations history in great detail with scenes of exciting adventure on and under the sea. Who can hold the sea: The U.S. Navy in the Cold War 1945-1960 is a must read for those interested in United States military and cold war history.