An elongated essay on the direction of men by the UK’s World War II field marshal, culminating with forgettable sketches of political figures whom the author has come to know. The leader must be able to master events, or else his subordinates will lose confidence in his direction. He must therefore choose his purposes wisely, and delegate or dispose of all else, so that he can proceed with a clear conscience, courage, and sincerity – so that subordinates understand he is disinterested and selfless. Military men, having gained the advantage (whether in peacetime or preliminary fighting), must seize the initiative at the decisive moment. (Preparation, especially during peacetime, is vital but insufficient. The general’s art is to simplify the problem, decide the best course, and then act. He must bow to the political leader, however.

Military sketches include Genghis Khan (a surprisingly modern commander), von Moltke, and Britain’s World War I generals; Gallipoli was well designed but badly executed. Political sketches include Alfred, Cromwell, Lincoln (whose purpose was not to impose his will but to guide the people to decide for themseves), and such contemporaries as Nehru, Mao, De Gaulle, and Churchill.

Not countries without atomic bombs but lacking universal principles are second rate.