How Did the Cold War End? Reagan, Gorbachev & the Secret Summit That Changed History
Summary
Host Bob Crawford interviews Michael Russell Gunn, writer and director of the new film *The Brink of War*. They discuss the 1986 Reykjavik Summit between Ronald Reagan and Mikhail Gorbachev, arguing this pivotal meeting initiated the end of the Cold War. The conversation covers the film’s historical accuracy, its relevance to modern geopolitical tensions, and the importance of diplomatic dialogue.
Topics discussed
Sponsors: Grow Therapy and Monday.com
Intro: American History Hotline and listener question
The Reykjavik Summit: Context and significance
Human rights and the 'Trust but Verify' breakthrough
Nuclear disarmament negotiations and the failed deal
Filming in the actual summit room and archival details
Production challenges: Costumes, sets, and sound
The summit's legacy: Beginning of the end of the Cold War
Modern parallels: Putin, Iran, and the need for dialogue
Why Iceland? Security and the haunted house setting
Jeff Daniels' preparation for playing Ronald Reagan
Sponsors: Wayfair and Big Easy Cruise
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