It was established in 1999 and is published by MIT Press for the Harvard Project on Cold War Studies.

The journal is issued also under the auspices of the Davis Center for Russian Studies (summer 2005).

[1][2] The journal covers the Cold War from a historical perspective by publishing research results from East and West archives during this period, as well as new memoirs.

Topical coverage encompasses theories of decision making, deterrence, bureaucratic politics, institutional formation, bargaining, diplomacy, foreign policy conduct, and international relations.

There is also a significant section for book reviews pertaining to the Cold War and international politics.