Journal of American History
Russell D. Buhite's book could not come at a better time...Buhite transcends the chaotic drama of events and achieves a meaningful marriage of historical analysis and policy considerations.
The Washington Times
This masterful history of hostage taking with Americans as victims raises the question of whether open societies, even with the highest technology, will ever be able to cope with this curse.
Library Journal
Of all terrorist acts, hostage-taking has been, and remains, the most difficult to manage. In the past, Washington has paid ransom, negotiated, or otherwise sought the rapid release of its subjects whenever in a bind. As its military might increased, however, the U.S. appetite for cajoling hostage-takers diminished exponentially, although it was not totally eliminated. Historian Buhite has dug deep to give us a readable account of these many tergiversations. His account of diplomatic negotiations with the USSR, China, North Korea, and Iran are first-rate, even if his policy recommendations are mundane. Little is revealed of more recent cases, presumably because of a lack of documentation, but Buhite's denunciation of our "no-ransom-no-negotiation" policy falls flat. For its historical erudition, however, this volume is recommended both to general readers as well as the scholarly community.Joseph A. Kechichian, Rand Corp., Santa Monica, Cal.
Booknews
Buhite (history, U. of Tenn.) examines key instances of hostage- taking since the beginning of America's history. He shows how federal policies toward hostages have evolved--from a flexible approach during the early republic, to a militaristic strategy in the 19th century, and in this century back to a position that can embrace negotiation--and how previous experiences can help policymakers deal with terrorist threats to Americans in Bosnia and elsewhere. Paper edition (unseen), $16.95. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)
