The Allure of Battle – Book

The Allure of Battle – A History of How Wars Have Been Won and Lost (2017)  by Cathal J. Nolan (Oxford University Press) –  Overviews of military history have generally been divided into two categories, the Great Captains, and the Great Battles.  Decisive action in war has been attributed to the genius of the winning general and/or to major battles believed to have been pivotal in winning the larger conflict.  In this book, Associate Professor of History and Executive Director of the International History Institute at Boston University Cathal Nolan takes a different position.  The single greatest factor in winning a war is exhaustion.  Exhaustion of resources, finances, or will.

Beginning in the Middle Ages, and continuing through to the Second World War, Nolan examines the recurring concept that makes war “alluring” to nations.  It is the illussion that wars can be won quickly.  This is a vital consideration when smaller powers are striving for major power status.  When the “quick war” concept fails, again, the two sides are left with a war of attrition.  Quite simply the question becomes, who will be exhausted first?

Along the way Nolan brings into question not only the revered status of some of the traditional “Great Battles”, but also the reputations of many of the “Great Captains”.  Napoleon, Frederick the Great, Alexander the Great (among others) all come under his microscope.  It is not that they come up wanting, but rather that when mythology is left to the side, we get a better view of both their strengths and their weaknesses.

If you are a military history buff, this book should be must reading for you in the New Year.  If you are a history fan in general, this is also a book you should consider strongly.  Nolan’s writing manages to walk the line between solid scholarship and high readability.  It is certain to change much that you think you know about the decisive nature of war and battle in world history.

Why I Liked It – A challenging re-examination of the history of war.

Why You Will Like It – Readable, engrossing history.

“The Allure of Battle” hits the shelves February 1, 2017

Rating – **** Recommended

I was provided with an ARC (Advance Reader Copy) of this book in return for an honest review.  Please read my review policy for full details.