In 1989, Soviet control over Eastern Europe ended when the communist regimes of the Warsaw Pact collapsed. These momentous and largely bloodless events set the stage for the end of the Cold War and ushered in a new era in international politics. Why did communism collapse relatively peacefully in Eastern Europe? Why did these changes occur in 1989, after more than four decades of communist rule? Why did this upheaval happen almost simultaneously in most of the Warsaw Pact?

NATO rose above its shaky beginnings to become one ofthe world's most important international political-military bodies. Its mission has broadened considerably, and it serves as a forum where the United States and Europe can discuss foreign and security policy in addition to their common problems. At present, however, it plays nothing more than a supportive role in the U.S.-led war on terror. To be sure, U.S. objectives often differ from those of NATO's European members; the nature of the war on terror limits what NATO can contribute; and NATO's military capabilities are also somewhat limited. NATO is not likely to disappear, but its current "out of area" missions will determine whether or not it can address its members' most important security concerns.