Books matching: military history
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- #1
A History of Warfare by John Keegan is a comprehensive exploration of warfare throughout human history, challenging the idea that war is a natural extension of politics. The book delves into the evolution of warfare from prehistoric times to the modern era, discussing tactics, strategies, and equipment changes. Keegan's writing style is described as theoretical, ranging over different historical periods rather than following a strict chronological order. He argues for the indirect approach for military victory and emphasizes the cultural aspects of war, providing insights that change readers' outlook significantly.
WAR IS NOT THE continuation of policy by other means. The world would be a simpler place to understand if this dictum of Clausewitz’s were true. Clausewitz, a Prussian veteran of the Napoleonic wars w... John Keegan's book 'The Face of Battle: A Study of Agincourt, Waterloo and the Somme' is a scholarly exploration of three significant battles throughout history - Agincourt, Waterloo, and the Somme. Keegan delves into the details and chaos of battle, providing vivid descriptions that give readers a closer look at the experiences of soldiers on the ground. The book challenges the conventional narratives of military history by focusing on the individual perspective of soldiers, their combat techniques, strategies, and the impact of these battles on the course of history.
I have not been in a battle; not near one, nor heard one from afar, nor seen the aftermath. I have questioned people who have been in battle–my father and father-in-law among them; have walked over ba...- #3
Shelby Foote's 'The Civil War: A Narrative' is a three-volume masterpiece that delves into the detailed coverage of major and minor events of the American Civil War. The narrative style of Foote weaves a captivating story, providing insights into the lives of the people involved, from prominent figures like Lincoln, Davis, and Lee to the soldiers in the trenches. The book offers a thorough and well-researched account of the Civil War, painting multifaceted portraits of historical figures and showcasing the impact of this significant period in American history.
“AFTER AN ABSENCE OF NEARLY TWO YEARS,” Jefferson Davis told the legislators assembled under the golden dome of his home-state capitol on the day after Christmas, 1862—twenty months and two weeks, to ... - #4
The Things They Carried by Tim O'Brien is a collection of short stories that revolve around the experiences of American soldiers during the Vietnam War. The novel delves into the emotional and psychological impacts of war on the soldiers, exploring themes of pain, guilt, truth, and the weight they carry both physically and emotionally. O'Brien's unique writing style incorporates a blend of fiction and memoir, portraying the harsh realities of war through different perspectives and memories, ultimately highlighting the complexities of human nature in times of conflict.
First Lieutenant Jimmy Cross carried letters from a girl named Martha, a junior at Mount Sebastian College in New Jersey. They were not love letters, but Lieutenant Cross was hoping, so he kept them f... - #5
'On War' by Carl von Clausewitz is a seminal work that delves into the theory of war, its tactical and strategic purposes, and the impact of historical examples on understanding the phenomenon of war. Clausewitz, a Prussian soldier who fought in the Napoleonic wars, emphasizes that war is 'a continuity of policy by other means' and provides insights on the moral forces in battle, the influence of political goals on war, and the necessity for military leaders to make decisions under time pressure with incomplete information. The book discusses the trinity of concepts shaping war, the rational use of war as an instrument of state policy, and the distinction between war for limited aims and war to render an opponent completely impotent.
I propose to consider first the various elements of the subject, next its various parts or sections, and finally the whole in its internal structure. In other words, I shall proceed from the simple to... - #6
'The Art of War' by Sun Tzu is a classic book on military strategy that offers a subtle and fascinating philosophy on waging war. The book provides short, practical advice that is still applicable in modern times, with insights into warfare tactics during the Warring States period in ancient China. Written in a concise and straightforward manner, the book delves into the importance of understanding one's strengths and weaknesses, knowing the enemy, and the strategic use of resources. Despite its focus on war, readers have found that the principles outlined in the book can be applied to various aspects of life, including leadership, business, and everyday situations.
The book is praised for its timeless wisdom and relevance, with readers appreciating its brevity and clarity. While some find the writing style to be simple and direct, others highlight the depth of wisdom contained in each line. Many readers have noted that the book offers valuable insights beyond military strategy, touching on topics such as leadership, human nature, and strategic thinking. Despite being an ancient text, 'The Art of War' continues to captivate readers with its practical advice and enduring relevance across different fields.
Zhuge Liang, commonly known by his style, Kongming, was born around the year 180, the son of a provincial official in the latter days of the Han dynasty. At that time, the dynasty was thoroughly decre... - #7
'Strategy' by B.H. Liddell Hart is a comprehensive exploration of military history and strategy. The author delves into the concept of using indirect approaches to achieve success, drawing examples from various battles throughout history. Liddell Hart's writing style is clear and concise, providing insights into the art of warfare from ancient times to more recent guerrilla actions. is divided into two sections, with the first focusing on a survey of military history and the second expanding on the author's theories of strategy.
Fools say that they learn by experience. I prefer to profit by others’ experience.’ This saying, quoted of Bismarck, but by no means original to him, has a special bearing on military questions. Unlik... 'Black Hawk Down: A Story of Modern War' by Mark Bowden is a compelling and detailed account of the First Battle of Mogadishu in 1993, where a small force of American Rangers and Special Force units found themselves trapped and outmanned by Somali armed rebels. The book provides a blow-by-blow retelling of the dramatic firefight, highlighting the chaos of war, individual heroism, and the complexities of modern urban warfare. Bowden's writing style, based on individual interviews and actual recordings from the battle, brings the harrowing ordeal to life with graphic detail, making it recommended for readers with a relatively strong stomach.
The book is praised for its authenticity, journalistic effort, and ability to provide a balanced view of the conflict by incorporating perspectives from both sides. It is commended for its thorough research, gripping storytelling, and for shedding light on the realities of war, the dedication of military personnel, and the complexities and mistakes that can shape the outcome of military operations.
At liftoff, Matt Eversmann said a Hail Mary. He was curled into a seat between two helicopter crew chiefs, the knees of his long legs up to his shoulders. Before him, jammed on both sides of the Black...- #9
In "The Great Siege: Malta 1565" by Ernle Bradford, readers are taken back to the historical events of the Ottoman attack on the island of Malta in 1565. The book provides a detailed account of the epic struggle between the Knights of St. John and the Ottoman Empire, showcasing the resolve and leadership on both sides during the siege. Bradford's writing style is described as compelling, with vivid descriptions of the siege, the strategies employed by the opposing forces, and the heroism displayed by the defenders of Malta. The narrative unfolds around central characters like Jean de la Vallette, the Knight's Grandmaster, and Mustapha Pasha, the Commander of the Turkish Army, making the historical events come to life like a novel.
Sultan of the Ottomans, Allah’s deputy on Earth, Lord of the Lords of this World, Possessor of Men’s Necks, King of Believers and Unbelievers, King of Kings, Emperor of the East and West, Emperor of t... 'With the Old Breed: At Peleliu and Okinawa' by Eugene B. Sledge is a first-hand memoir detailing the author's experiences as a Marine in the Pacific during World War II. The book provides a gritty and realistic account of the brutal battles at Peleliu and Okinawa, showcasing the horrors of war without any glorification. Sledge's writing style is honest, straightforward, and poignant, as he vividly describes the harsh realities of military life, the psychological challenges faced by soldiers, and the physical and emotional toll of combat.
I enlisted in the Marine Corps on 3 December 1942 at Marion, Alabama. At the time I was a freshman at Marion Military Institute. My parents and brother Edward had urged me to stay in college as long a...