Italian journalist and Vatican insider Massimo Franco draws on unique access to the archives of the Holy See and a range of sources both in Washington, D.C. and Rome to chart the path of U.S.-Vatican relations, revealing the religious and political tensions that have shaped their dealings and our world. Starting with the Holy See's initial diplomatic overtures to the United States in the 1780's…
Throughout the twentieth century, we have seen far too many brutal attacks on peoples of different ethnic backgrounds and religious faiths throughout the world. I have a great sympathy for the people of East Timor, who, like my own people in Tibet, have been attacked and oppressed for simply trying to keep their own culture and identity alive. It is heartening to see people who have the courage…
In these wide-ranging and penetrating essays, O'Brien examines how throughout the world today these age-old forces are once again threatening democracy, the rule of law, and freedom of expression -- particularly in the United States, the nation founded on Enlightenment values. He weaves together beautifully written discussions on these and other timely, related topics. Enlivening his grim predi…