This book helps to understand the debate within Israel about the possibility of peace with the Palestinians.

The emergence of Israel 1947-1949 -- Consolidation 1949-1953 -- Attempts at accommodation 1953-1955 -- The road to Suez 1955-1957 -- The alliance of the periphery 1957-1963 -- Poor little Samson 1963-1969 -- Immobilism 1969-1974 -- Disengagement 1974-1977 -- Peace with Egypt 1977-1981 -- The Lebanese quagmire 1981-1984 -- Political paralysis 1984-1988 -- Stonewalling 1988-1992 -- The breakthrough 1992-1995 -- The setback 1995-1996 -- Back to the Iron Wall 1996-1998.