Masters Of The Battlefield

A catalogue of history's greatest military leaders - from the Classical Age to the Napoleonic Era - and what drove them to victory. In Great Commanders, Davis turns his attention to military leaders from throughout history who stand out for their abilities - indeed, individuals who were destined for success or even born to command, challenging the prevailing view that movements, rather than individuals, have determined the progression of history. In short, this is unapologetically Great Man history. Each chapter opens with a brief biography that reveals or outlines the subject's character, followed by an overview of the methods of warfare of his time. A concise overview of each subject's military career leads to a more in-depth look at the battles that reveal precisely how each commander was able to achieve victory, often against great odds. Finally, Davis analyzes each individual's contribution to tactical warfare and offers an assessment of how his personality shaped his leadership style.

Written by one of Britain's most successful living battlefield commanders, Masters of the Battlefield examines the lives and tactics of 30 of the world's greatest military leaders. Arranged chronologically, each general is represented by a colour-illustrated double-page spread containing a biography, a campaign map and a specially commissioned, large-format, full-colour battle map of his most famous victory, which can be pulled out and unfolded to reveal the individual genius of each commander. Bringing to life the victorious exploits of history's most famous military leaders, this book will appeal to military history enthusiasts and amateur psychologists alike.