First published in 1945, in the aftermath of the bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, Atomic Energy in Cosmic and Human Life offers a unique account of the problem of atomic energy and the underlying principles of radioactive decay. Written by the pre-eminent physicist George Gamow, and dedicated to the hope of lasting peace, the book was originally designed to give a complete picture of what atomic energy is, where it comes from, and how it can be used for better or worse. Featuring a number of graphs and illustrations by the author himself, this small volume will continue to be of value to those interested in the history of the study of radioactivity.