William Taubman

Institute Launches Author Series

WASHINGTON, DC On Thursday, March 20, Dr. William Taubman, professor of political science at Amherst College, discussed his new book, Khrushchev: The Man and His Era. Taubman's visit marked the first in a series of author events to be held at the Institute. Over 40 Institute friends and colleagues attended the reception and discussion, held at the Institute's offices. A book signing followed a lively and informative question and answer session.

Drawing on previously unreleased material and interviews, the meticulously researched and highly readable account provides insights into Khrushchev's unique, blunt style and the inner workings of the Soviet Union during a time of great change and international upheaval. The work has attracted enthusiastic reactions from the New York Times, The Washington Post, and other sources.

In his introduction to the group, Dr. Taubman dispelled the most famous myth surrounding the Soviet leader. "The image we have of Khrushchev is where I begin. They remember the shoe, even in Russia, The banging of the shoe. Well, it turns out the shoe may not have been banged, it may only have been brandished."

Taubman noted Khrushchev's complex and often-enigmatic leadership style. "Khrushchev is a kind of classic case of the impact of personality on history...He does things you think that no one else in his leadership group would have done at the time."

Khrushchev presided over the Soviet Union during some of the most famous and notorious moments of the Cold War: the U-2 incident, the Berlin Crisis and the Cuban Missile Crisis. When asked about Khrushchev's role in the Cuban Missile Crisis, Taubman said, "nobody in the Soviet leadership besides Khrushchev would've sent those missiles to Cuba. It was wild, reckless move," said Taubman.

Future author event will be held monthly at the Eisenhower Institute's Washington office. The next session, scheduled for April 15 will feature Dr. Taubman's brother, Philip Taubman, Deputy Editor of the New York Times' editorial page. Mr. Taubman will present his new book, Secret Empire: Eisenhower, the CIA, and the Hidden Story of America's Space Espionage. Limited seating is available.