Patton: A Genius for War
Patton: A Genius for War is a full-fledged portrait of an extraordinary American that reveals the complex and contradictory personality that lay behind the swashbuckling and brash facade. According to Publishers Weekly, the result is "a major biography of a major American military figure."
A comprehensive biography of General George Patton draws on hitherto unavailable letters, diaries, and memoirs, uncovering many new facts to create an insightful and definitive portrait of an American military hero.
Fifty years after his death, General George S. Patton Jr. remains one of the most colorful, charismatic, misunderstood, and controversial figures ever to set foot on the battlefields of World War II. And the image of the man has been not a little influenced by the 1970 film Patton, starring George C. Scott, in which he is portrayed as a swashbuckling, brash, profane, impetuous general who wore ivory-handled pistols into battle and slapped two hospitalized soldiers in Sicily.
I have been given command of Third Army…I am here because of the confidence of two men: the President of the United States and the Theater Commander…It is inevitable for men to be killed and wounded in battle. But there is no reason why such losses should be increased because of incompetence and carelessness of some stupid son-of-a-bitch. I don’t tolerate such men on my staff.
In Patton: A Genius for War, Carlo D’Este delivers a meticulously researched and comprehensive biography of General George S. Patton Jr. This gripping exploration of Patton’s life goes far beyond the surface to reveal the multifaceted, complex personality of one of America’s most famous military leaders.
D’Este’s access to Patton’s personal and public papers, as well as the cooperation of his family, allows for an intimate portrayal of the man behind the legend. The author skillfully presents a balanced view of Patton, showcasing not just his public image but also his private thoughts and struggles. Through hitherto unavailable letters, diaries, and memoirs, D’Este uncovers new facts and provides unparalleled insights into the general’s character and motivations.
The book highlights Patton’s unwavering dedication to his craft and his relentless pursuit of excellence. D’Este paints a vivid picture of a man who was not only a brilliant strategist but also a devoted student of history, a poet, and a man plagued by self-doubt. By delving into the private life of Patton, the author humanizes him, making him more relatable and adding layers of depth to his character.
D’Este’s prose is engaging and his storytelling skills are exceptional, effortlessly drawing the reader into the world of Patton and the tumultuous era of World War II. While the biography is lengthy, it is necessary to capture the full essence of the man and his contributions to military history.
Overall, Patton: A Genius for War is an outstanding biography that brings General George S. Patton Jr. to life with unparalleled detail and nuance. It is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of this iconic American military hero.
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