U.S. Nuclear Weapons: The Secret History

by Chuck Hansen

Drawing on recently declassified material, Hansen presents the first detailed technological history of the development of American nuclear and thermonuclear weapons. More than 330 black-and-white photographs document the design and development of this complex and controversial technology.

Genres: History

232 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1988

Reviews

[Nick Black · Rating 5 out of 5]

the single best unclassified reference. chuck hansen was an incredibly dogged and talented researcher, a real american hero. (read the expanded version Swords of Armageddon 2nd E, Vol. I--VII).

[Kevin · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the most comprehensive review of US nuclear weapons variants and their delivery systems that I’ve found. The book provides a background on the physics involved in making nuclear weapons and then explores the development of both fission and thermonuclear weapons. It was surprising to see how rapidly the field developed within 15-20 years after the end of WWII. It was also surprising to see how many variants of different warheads and delivery systems there were. There is also a review of several nuclear testing operations from the 50’s and 60’s but it mostly tracks those taking place in the pacific to test the newer thermonuclear weapons. The book was written in the late 80’s so you’ll have to look elsewhere for information on more recent developments. However, I think the information presented in this book is very timely given the current plans underway (as of Sept. 2024) to renew portions of the US stockpile.

If you’re interested in learning more about the details of America’s nuclear armaments this is the book for you!