45/85: America And The World Since World War II--Vol. 3: 1961-1975

This production has all the style and class that a major network news organization like ABC can provide. It is a quality piece of entertainment, as well as a careful view of history. Ted Koppel hosts this fast-paced examination of a turbulent era. Much of the emphasis is on foreign policy from the Bay of Pigs invasion to the U.S. withdrawal from Vietnam. Comments from numerous key figures including Dean Rusk, Alexander Haig, Henry Kissinger, George McGovern, and Richard Nixon, add considerable depth. Even more interesting are the comments of foreign observers from France, China, the U.S.S.R., Vietnam, and Israel. Anyone who lived through this period will certainly re-experience some emotions at watching coverage of such events as John Kennedy's funeral, Robert Kennedy's last public moments, or the National Guard at Kent State University in 1970. And, for younger viewers, the production offers a look at the America their parents grew up in. Libraries of all sizes should want all four volumes of 45/85. (Carolyn Ferguson)