"One issue could lead to a disastrous war between the United States and China in the next five to ten years: Taiwan. In early 2005 China passed an anti-secession law that authorized the use of force against Taiwan should it declare independence, raising tensions in a region where emotions are already running high. Many see the move as one step closer to war breaking out between China and Taiwan. A growing number of Taiwanese want independence for their island and regard mainland China as an alien nation. Mainland Chinese believe Taiwan was stolen from China more than a century ago, and their patience about getting it back is wearing thin. Washington officially endorses a "one China" policy but also sells arms to Taiwan and maintains an implicit pledge to defend it from attack. That policy invites miscalculation by both Taiwan and China. The three parties are on a collision course, and unless something dramatic changes, an armed conflict is virtually inevitable within a decade. In America's Coming War with China, Carpenter warns what the U.S. must do - quickly - to avoid being dragged into war."--Jacket.