The Pentagon: A History

The creation of the Pentagon in seventeen whirlwind months during World War II is one of the great construction feats in American history, involving a tremendous mobilization of manpower, resources, and minds. In astonishingly short order, Brigadier General Brehon B. Somervell conceived and built an institution that ranks with the White House, the Vatican, and a handful of other structures as symbols recognized around the world. Now veteran military reporter Steve Vogel reveals the remarkable story of the Pentagon’s construction, from its dramatic birth to its rebuilding after the September 11 attack. The story features key figures such as Franklin D. Roosevelt, Henry L. Stimson, George C. Marshall, Leslie R. Groves, and John McShain. It covers the Pentagon’s history through critical moments including the Cold War, Cuban Missile Crisis, Vietnam War protests, and the 9/11 attacks, with insights into the rebuilding process. This book tells a broader story of modern American history, showcasing it as a landmark of engineering and cultural significance.