This is the fourth edition of Lundestad's textbook on the history of international politics after 1945. The book concentrates on two main lines of development: the rivalry between the superpowers and the effects of their power and influence even in the most remote corners of the globe; and the weakened position of the superpowers and the developments leading up to the dissolution of the Soviet Union and the Eastern bloc. This edition covers international developments up to mid-1998, explaining the end of the Cold War, and describing the many post-Cold War crises as well as political and economic developments in Russia, the EU and East Asia. The book is intended as an introduction to the subject for all students of modern history and international relations, as well as the general reader with an interest in post-war history and international affairs.