War and Peace in the Nuclear Age

Scientists worldwide race to create nuclear weapons and be the first to use them in World War II.

The United States and the Soviet Union, once allies, become Cold War adversaries.

In the 1950s the United States begins to rely heavily on nuclear weapons for defense after the launch of the Soviet satellite Sputnik sparks fears of a "missile gap."

France and England race to acquire nuclear weapons during the 1950s and 1960s; NATO worries about defending Europe from the threat from the East.

During the 1962 Cuban Missile Crisis, America and the Soviet Union are each close to initiating nuclear war.

Robert S. McNamara confronts the spectre of nuclear war during his tenure as Secretary of Defense (1961-1968).

As the U.S. and Soviet nuclear arsenals reach a rough parity, SALT I, the first arms control agreement, is negotiated.

A case study of the dynamics of nuclear proliferation -- China, India and Pakistan race to acquire atomic weapons.

Jimmy Carter's goals for his presidency include the reduction of nuclear weapons and improving America's relations with the Soviet Union.

Soviet leader Gorbachev accepts President Reagan's proposal for both sides to dismantle certain missiles.

Supporters and critics of the MX missile discuss its role and how it could best be used.

President Reagan supports the Strategic Defense Initiative as a means of eliminating the threat of nuclear attack.

Nations face the challenge of resolving disputes without nuclear weapons or physical force.