A Book Conversation with Reagan Institute Director Roger Zakheim and Fox News Radio Host Guy Benson

“Bravo, Roger Zakheim for telling us more of the story of Ronald Reagan’s thinking and leadership in instituting, bravely and under intense criticism, his program of peace through strength.”

“His book is a timely reminder that 'Peace through Strength' is not just a historical doctrine, but an essential strategy that has preserved America's peace and prosperity for generations.”

Please join us for an event with the Washington, D.C. Director of the Reagan Institute Roger Zakheim on his new book, Peace Through Strength: How Reagan’s Military Buildup Won the Cold War (publish date: November 17, 2026). This event is free to attend; however, reservations are recommended. 

In Peace Through Strength, Zakheim examines the largest peacetime military buildup and how it helped defeat the Soviet Union and bring the Cold War to an end. Drawing from President Reagan’s own words, firsthand accounts from Washington insiders, and archival research, the book explores how sustained military investment, allied confidence, and strategic clarity altered Soviet behavior and restored US credibility on the world stage.

This is the first book to tell the full story of how President Ronald Reagan rebuilt American military strength—enabling the United States to win the Cold War without firing a shot. As Zakheim makes clear, the Reagan buildup is not merely a chapter in history. In today's era of renewed great-power competition, Peace Through Strength offers important lessons for restoring deterrence, resolve, and strength. 

Roger Zakheim serves as the Washington Director of the Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation and Institute. He is the co-founder of the Reagan National Defense Forum and host of the Reaganism podcast. Mr. Zakheim frequently speaks and writes on national security and defense issues. He has testified before a number of Congressional committees and regularly appears on TV and lectures on national security topics.