In the early 1960s, the world stood at a crossroads. The United Nations, still in its formative years, was seen as humanity’s best hope for peace, while newly independent African and Asian nations sought their place on the global stage. At the heart of these efforts was U Thant, the UN Secretary-General from Burma, a practicing Buddhist and former schoolteacher whose quiet determination and moral vision shaped some of the twentieth century’s most critical moments.

In Peacemaker, historian Thant Myint-U chronicles his grandfather’s extraordinary yet often overlooked role in global diplomacy. Drawing on newly declassified documents, the book recounts U Thant’s tireless efforts to mediate international crises—from confronting white supremacist mercenaries in the Congo and helping defuse the Cuban Missile Crisis to trying to prevent the 1967 Six-Day War. Beyond conflict resolution, U Thant championed peace in Vietnam, promoted a fairer international economic system, safeguarded the environment, and sought to prevent a third world war.

The book is both a biographical tribute and a study in the power of individual action. It captures a golden era of diplomacy and offers invaluable insights into how a committed leader can influence global affairs. By tracing U Thant’s moral compass and unwavering dedication to peace, Peacemaker reminds readers of the potential for diplomacy and hope in turbulent times.

Praised by global thought leaders, the book has been called:

• “A model of biographical thoroughness and insight … artfully shaped, it tells its improbable and extraordinary story with an enviable mixture of writerly skill and scholarly authority.” – William Dalrymple
• “Important reading at any time in history; essential in the world of today.” – Peter Frankopan
• “Thant Myint-U’s masterly account of legendary UN Secretary General U Thant’s quest for global peace and order is a useful reminder that politics can have a moral centre … this absorbing and lucid book should be required reading for leaders.” – Shivshankar Menon
• “In this finely grained and empathetic biography, Thant Myint-U delves deep into family and historical archives to chronicle a decade of hope and despair over which the first Asian Secretary-General presided.” – Shyam Saran
• “A superb account of U Thant’s life and legacy, drawing on newly declassified papers, offering valuable lessons for our turbulent times.” – Harsh Vardhan Shringla

About the Author:
Thant Myint-U is an award-winning historian, writer, conservationist, and international public servant. An honorary fellow of Trinity College, Cambridge, he has authored five books and is a recipient of the Padma Shri from the Government of India.

Why This Book Matters:

• Reveals the untold story of U Thant, the first Asian UN Secretary-General, and his critical role in global diplomacy during the 1960s.
• Draws on newly declassified documents to provide fresh insights into key international crises.
• Explores themes of morality, leadership, and diplomacy, offering lessons for today’s volatile world.
• A compelling read for students of history, international relations, and global politics.