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A Rage to Conquer: Twelve Battles That Changed the Course of Western History
Award-winning author Michael Walsh looks at twelve momentous battles that changed the course of Western history.
A sequel to Michael Walsh’s Last Stands, his new book A Rage to Conquer is a journey through the twelve of the most important battles in Western history. As Walsh sees it, war is an important facet of every culture – and, for better or worse, our world is unthinkable without it. War has been an essential part of the human condition throughout history, the principal agent of societal change, waged by men on behalf of, and in pursuit of, their gods, women, riches, power, and the sheer joy of combat.
A sequel to Michael Walsh’s Last Stands, his new book A Rage to Conquer is a journey through the twelve of the most important battles in Western history. As Walsh sees it, war is an important facet of every culture – and, for better or worse, our world is unthinkable without it. War has been an essential part of the human condition throughout history, the principal agent of societal change, waged by men on behalf of, and in pursuit of, their gods, women, riches, power, and the sheer joy of combat.
400 pages, Hardcover
Published January 28, 2025
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January 6, 2025
A Rage to Conquer
by Michael Walsh examines twelve battles that changed the course of Western history. The author views war as an important part of every culture that has led to societal change throughout history.
He covers several well-know leaders and a couple who are lesser known. They include Achilles, Alexander the Great, Julius Ceasar, Bohemond, and Patton along with others. Specific important battles are covered in detail. However, the writing felt extremely verbose to me. It took a lot to wade through the words used to get to the important nuggets Walsh was trying to share. While the writer obviously did a tremendous amount of research and is extremely knowledgeable, his points sometimes got lost in the tangential wording.
The book is obviously well-researched, but read too much like a textbook. I was looking for more straight history, but the author’s views come through loud and clear rather than providing a balanced view of events. I wanted the history to come to life, but it didn’t. Nevertheless, I did learn some new things about some of the various battles covered in the book.
St. Martin’s Press and Michael Walsh provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. The publication date is currently set for January 28, 2025.
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My 2.88 rounded to 3 stars review is coming soon.
He covers several well-know leaders and a couple who are lesser known. They include Achilles, Alexander the Great, Julius Ceasar, Bohemond, and Patton along with others. Specific important battles are covered in detail. However, the writing felt extremely verbose to me. It took a lot to wade through the words used to get to the important nuggets Walsh was trying to share. While the writer obviously did a tremendous amount of research and is extremely knowledgeable, his points sometimes got lost in the tangential wording.
The book is obviously well-researched, but read too much like a textbook. I was looking for more straight history, but the author’s views come through loud and clear rather than providing a balanced view of events. I wanted the history to come to life, but it didn’t. Nevertheless, I did learn some new things about some of the various battles covered in the book.
St. Martin’s Press and Michael Walsh provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. The publication date is currently set for January 28, 2025.
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My 2.88 rounded to 3 stars review is coming soon.
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January 7, 2025An interesting summary of twelve "important" battles in Western history, and famous commanders, with an emphasis on von Clausewitz. Where I took issue with the book was Walsh's rather simplistic view that "man" is hardwired to warfare, further, that the problem with politics and the world today is that manly men need to get out there and slaughter and shed blood. Jingoistic at best.
November 26, 2024
Michael Walsh quotes the Prussian general Carl von Clausewitz (a veteran of the Napoleonic Wars) who said that "War is merely the continuation of policy/politics by other means. [It is] a genuine political instrument, a continuation of political intercourse/dealings/interaction..." Basically and however unpleasant, war is a legitimate tool of diplomacy. He then goes on to examine 12 important battles and their architects that had great influence on the development of Western history from Achilles and Alexander to Nimitz and Patton.
I thought his recounting and explanations of the various battles and leaders was very interesting - much information that I wasn't familiar with in many cases. But his summation in the Afterword was full-guns-blazing-take-no-prisoners straightforward and forceful. It is almost certain to offend sensitive readers with certain ideological leanings, but I found his logic to be quite persuasive. In a nutshell, he states that America has been in a decline since WWII.
"One notes that in all the conflicts [since WWII]... these wars of choice were fought along the invented limiting principle (found nowhere in the ancient world) that wars (a) should be defensive, fought in response to some provocation, and (b) any response should be 'proportionate' to the initial injury. In other words, the goal has always been to return to the status quo ante – a recipe for an unstable stasis that must eventually fly apart."
He offers a particularly harsh judgement of the presidents since Reagan who have responded to aggression with wimpyness (my word, not his) and a desire not to be "rude," and the conflicts we have been involved in have been disastrous. (His strongest criticism falls on both Bushes.) And as much as I hate the idea of war for our nation, I have to agree with much of his arguments that America has allowed itself to be pushed around by other nations, all of whom know we won't respond with any aggression (except for Reagan's presidency), and we've become a weak nation that values peace over freedom.
I suspect a lot of reviewers will give the book low ratings because of his bellicose words, but much of my study of history seems to agree for the most part with him. (I rec'd a digital advance copy of this book from the publisher for review purposes. This did not affect my rating.)
I thought his recounting and explanations of the various battles and leaders was very interesting - much information that I wasn't familiar with in many cases. But his summation in the Afterword was full-guns-blazing-take-no-prisoners straightforward and forceful. It is almost certain to offend sensitive readers with certain ideological leanings, but I found his logic to be quite persuasive. In a nutshell, he states that America has been in a decline since WWII.
"One notes that in all the conflicts [since WWII]... these wars of choice were fought along the invented limiting principle (found nowhere in the ancient world) that wars (a) should be defensive, fought in response to some provocation, and (b) any response should be 'proportionate' to the initial injury. In other words, the goal has always been to return to the status quo ante – a recipe for an unstable stasis that must eventually fly apart."
He offers a particularly harsh judgement of the presidents since Reagan who have responded to aggression with wimpyness (my word, not his) and a desire not to be "rude," and the conflicts we have been involved in have been disastrous. (His strongest criticism falls on both Bushes.) And as much as I hate the idea of war for our nation, I have to agree with much of his arguments that America has allowed itself to be pushed around by other nations, all of whom know we won't respond with any aggression (except for Reagan's presidency), and we've become a weak nation that values peace over freedom.
I suspect a lot of reviewers will give the book low ratings because of his bellicose words, but much of my study of history seems to agree for the most part with him. (I rec'd a digital advance copy of this book from the publisher for review purposes. This did not affect my rating.)
January 7, 2025
I was only a few minutes into the audiobook of A Rage to Conquer when I had to pause and do some research. How had I ended up with this book? Was it a mistake? I thought perhaps I had accidentally picked up a self-published vanity piece, but no, St. Martin's Press was listed. I have no idea how this book made it through the editorial process. How many people had to sign-off on this book before it saw the light of day? And what were they thinking?
Let's start with the good. The author has a voice made for audiobooks and I would listen to him read almost anything but his own writing. Second, the writing is interesting, informative, well-researched, and well-organized. But the conclusions Michael Walsh (not to be confused with all the other authors who write under the same and similar names) reaches are BANANAS. If you are already familiar with the concepts and history presented in A Rage to Conquer, Walsh's insights and interpretations of events can be interesting. I like the way what could be very dry information is presented in an engaging manner. But WOW! does the train jump the tracks - I still find myself wondering if this is some sort of performance art. Normally I would conclude by thanking the author, publisher, and NetGalley for the audioARC but in this case, I am not actually grateful. (And for anyone who is curious, yes, I did listen to every single minute because I requested the book, so I did this to myself and let this be a lesson to future Edie - be much more diligent about vetting a book before requesting it.)
Let's start with the good. The author has a voice made for audiobooks and I would listen to him read almost anything but his own writing. Second, the writing is interesting, informative, well-researched, and well-organized. But the conclusions Michael Walsh (not to be confused with all the other authors who write under the same and similar names) reaches are BANANAS. If you are already familiar with the concepts and history presented in A Rage to Conquer, Walsh's insights and interpretations of events can be interesting. I like the way what could be very dry information is presented in an engaging manner. But WOW! does the train jump the tracks - I still find myself wondering if this is some sort of performance art. Normally I would conclude by thanking the author, publisher, and NetGalley for the audioARC but in this case, I am not actually grateful. (And for anyone who is curious, yes, I did listen to every single minute because I requested the book, so I did this to myself and let this be a lesson to future Edie - be much more diligent about vetting a book before requesting it.)
January 8, 2025
JFirst let me say, I have multiple history degrees, and I have spent years studying both cultural and military history. I have some experience reading and evaluating both primary sources and history books. I also understand not every book is written well and that even with a wealth of information from primary sources, writers can still miss the mark for all readers.
This book is clearly not geared towards me since I am not a man and can't have the innate rage that Walsh says all men have in their desire for war and death or as the title suggests "to conquer."
Basics: it is several chapters, a rather quick read, and you can see that the author has explored the idea of using primary sources for support.
I was excited to read this based on the premise, but once I got into the introduction, I knew it was not for me. I should have stopped and simply Dnf'd the book then, but I pushed through and waded through the absolute verbose vitriol that Walsh uses to exalt the military men he focuses on such as Alexander, Napolean, Caesar, Custer, and others, coupled with his belief that war is inevitable and glorious.
I wish I had stopped reading this when he said "if women are fighting in your front lines, then you're losing" or later when he speaks about how the purpose of a female is to punish man or lure them and she only lives for childbirth, or when he started going into the wonders of war and equating it to sexual release for several pages. Maybe I should have stopped when he talked about war having to be an art because if it were anything else then men couldn't accept the brutality and violence willingly that men need to be able to do to be vigorous, strapping, masculine men. I certainly don't even want to get into his diatribe against the "soft" and weak USA post 9/11. (but seriously, why was that even part of an "evaluation" about the 12 battles)
In between the glorification and the personal biases, there is a tiny bit of historical fact sprinkled in for those that want to venture into this work without being a raging to conqure male
Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for the eARC of this work in exchange for my honest review.
This book is clearly not geared towards me since I am not a man and can't have the innate rage that Walsh says all men have in their desire for war and death or as the title suggests "to conquer."
Basics: it is several chapters, a rather quick read, and you can see that the author has explored the idea of using primary sources for support.
I was excited to read this based on the premise, but once I got into the introduction, I knew it was not for me. I should have stopped and simply Dnf'd the book then, but I pushed through and waded through the absolute verbose vitriol that Walsh uses to exalt the military men he focuses on such as Alexander, Napolean, Caesar, Custer, and others, coupled with his belief that war is inevitable and glorious.
I wish I had stopped reading this when he said "if women are fighting in your front lines, then you're losing" or later when he speaks about how the purpose of a female is to punish man or lure them and she only lives for childbirth, or when he started going into the wonders of war and equating it to sexual release for several pages. Maybe I should have stopped when he talked about war having to be an art because if it were anything else then men couldn't accept the brutality and violence willingly that men need to be able to do to be vigorous, strapping, masculine men. I certainly don't even want to get into his diatribe against the "soft" and weak USA post 9/11. (but seriously, why was that even part of an "evaluation" about the 12 battles)
In between the glorification and the personal biases, there is a tiny bit of historical fact sprinkled in for those that want to venture into this work without being a raging to conqure male
Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for the eARC of this work in exchange for my honest review.
April 25, 2025
I am as anti-war as they come, but I recognize it sometimes leads to necessary charge (the French Revolution comes to mind). So reading about some of the most famous battles with the most noteworthy generals could be interesting for me, and this was well researched.
But the problem with this one was the conclusions the author came to, ranging from the vaguely misogynist to outright asinine. A lot of this boiled down to war being necessary for men while women should be more domesticated, which is honestly absurd to even say. Would be one star if it wasn’t for the research done.
But the problem with this one was the conclusions the author came to, ranging from the vaguely misogynist to outright asinine. A lot of this boiled down to war being necessary for men while women should be more domesticated, which is honestly absurd to even say. Would be one star if it wasn’t for the research done.
January 26, 2025
I received an advance copy of this book from the publisher.
I really don’t know where to start with this hot mess of a book. The idea that evolution is real but apparently ended 3,200 years ago. The assertion that humans evolved from monkeys as opposed to the actual theory of evolution that humans and chimps share a common ancestor. Or maybe the very idea that war is somehow good. The author starts off with the idea that Judeo Christian religion dooms any society that uses women in combat while completely ignoring the fact that, among others, both the Mycenaean Greeks and the people commonly referred to as Vikings (acutely several Scandinavian tribes while pillaging {Viking is a Verb. It describes an activity, not a people}) both had women warriors. The “Vikings” spread until they adopted Christianity and barred women from combat. After that, they collapsed as a force in Europe. And yes, the Normans (“Viking” French) conquered England, but Hastings is not mentioned in the book.
The author also fails to even mention the single most transformative event in Western history. While that event started with a battle, a bunch of Genoese mercenaries fighting in Crimea, that battle is a: not important and b: not mentioned in the book. That event? The introduction of pestis to Europe in 1346. That little virus caused more deaths in Europe than all the wars in European history up to that time. Tens of millions died and feudalism was replaced by capitalism. And while capitalism causes wars, for example W’s misguided invasion of Iraq, it owes its origins to a virus, not a war.
And don’t even get me started on using a novel written 600 years after the events portrayed as a primary source. This would balloon from a review to a dissertation. I will just say that we have no idea if Homer was writing about something that happened in present day Turkey or if he was using a historical event to him to write about something else entirely. Wake up people, MASH was about Vietnam, not Korea.
So why am I giving this book any stars at all? The author does a good job of describing the more recent battles for which we do have actual primary source materials. But his conclusions? You may not have evolved but most of us have.
I really don’t know where to start with this hot mess of a book. The idea that evolution is real but apparently ended 3,200 years ago. The assertion that humans evolved from monkeys as opposed to the actual theory of evolution that humans and chimps share a common ancestor. Or maybe the very idea that war is somehow good. The author starts off with the idea that Judeo Christian religion dooms any society that uses women in combat while completely ignoring the fact that, among others, both the Mycenaean Greeks and the people commonly referred to as Vikings (acutely several Scandinavian tribes while pillaging {Viking is a Verb. It describes an activity, not a people}) both had women warriors. The “Vikings” spread until they adopted Christianity and barred women from combat. After that, they collapsed as a force in Europe. And yes, the Normans (“Viking” French) conquered England, but Hastings is not mentioned in the book.
The author also fails to even mention the single most transformative event in Western history. While that event started with a battle, a bunch of Genoese mercenaries fighting in Crimea, that battle is a: not important and b: not mentioned in the book. That event? The introduction of pestis to Europe in 1346. That little virus caused more deaths in Europe than all the wars in European history up to that time. Tens of millions died and feudalism was replaced by capitalism. And while capitalism causes wars, for example W’s misguided invasion of Iraq, it owes its origins to a virus, not a war.
And don’t even get me started on using a novel written 600 years after the events portrayed as a primary source. This would balloon from a review to a dissertation. I will just say that we have no idea if Homer was writing about something that happened in present day Turkey or if he was using a historical event to him to write about something else entirely. Wake up people, MASH was about Vietnam, not Korea.
So why am I giving this book any stars at all? The author does a good job of describing the more recent battles for which we do have actual primary source materials. But his conclusions? You may not have evolved but most of us have.
June 20, 2025
Michael Walsh’s “A Rage to Conquer: Twelve Battles That Changed the Course of Western History” is an ambitious and provocative journey through the crucible of Western civilization, told through the lens of twelve epochal battles. Walsh, an award-winning author and journalist, brings a sweeping narrative style and strong opinions to his survey of conflict, blending military history with cultural critique and philosophical reflection. The book opens with a meditation on war’s centrality to human society, positioning it not as an aberration but as a principal agent of societal change—a theme Walsh returns to throughout. He begins with the foundational theories of Carl von Clausewitz, then moves chronologically from the mythic clash at Troy to the modern devastation of 9/11, examining each battle not just for its tactics and commanders—Achilles, Alexander, Caesar, Napoleon, Patton, and others—but for its enduring impact on the trajectory of Western culture. Walsh’s writing is vivid and often polemical. He is unapologetically critical of what he perceives as the “politically correct” aversion to war, arguing that conflict is an elemental, masculine force that has shaped, and will continue to shape, the world. His admiration for military genius is palpable, especially in his treatment of figures like Napoleon and Alexander. Each chapter is rich with detail and draws on a wide range of scholarship, making the battles come alive for both dedicated history buffs and general readers. However, Walsh’s forceful perspective is not without controversy. Some readers may find his views on gender and war—particularly his assertion that societies relying on women in combat are “destined to lose”—divisive. His afterword, which critiques America’s post-World War II military record and lambastes both political and cultural trends, is likely to spark debate and may alienate those seeking a more neutral account. Despite these contentious stances, “A Rage to Conquer” succeeds as both a compelling narrative and a bold argument about the role of warfare in shaping civilization. It is a book that will challenge, inform, and perhaps provoke—an invigorating read for anyone interested in the forces that have forged the West.
November 25, 2024
Thanks to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for the Audio ARC!
So, I have to say that I'm a little disappointed. I really liked this book, right up until I didn't.
Let me explain: the author is obviously very interested in and knowledgeable about war and great historical leaders. And the breakdown of the 12 battles that changed the shape of history was interesting and fantastic. And then came the afterword, where the booked veered sharply into the author's strong opinions about the modern military prowess (or lack thereof) of the US, the aftermath of 9/11, the ineptitude of all presidents post-Reagan, and several other fringe topics. Now it's not that I don't think that the author has the right to his own opinion, or to express that opinion in his book, but this was quite a polarizing and inflammatory rant. Even more so in audio form, with the author himself narrating. I just think it would have been more appropriate to end the book after the last chapter and leave the ranting for an op-ed, or a podcast, or a post on X. A great example of this is another history buff who I highly respect: Dan Carlin. In his Hardcore History podcast, you get history. Obviously, any account of history is somewhat influenced by the narrator's worldview, but it's pretty straight forward history. If you want to hear all about Dan's personal opinion on the state of our democracy, or the mistakes we're making because we didn't learn from history, or any number of other reasons to share ones opinion, you listen to Common Sense, his other podcast. A little separation of fact and opinion in this case would have left a better impression, in my opinion.
So, I have to say that I'm a little disappointed. I really liked this book, right up until I didn't.
Let me explain: the author is obviously very interested in and knowledgeable about war and great historical leaders. And the breakdown of the 12 battles that changed the shape of history was interesting and fantastic. And then came the afterword, where the booked veered sharply into the author's strong opinions about the modern military prowess (or lack thereof) of the US, the aftermath of 9/11, the ineptitude of all presidents post-Reagan, and several other fringe topics. Now it's not that I don't think that the author has the right to his own opinion, or to express that opinion in his book, but this was quite a polarizing and inflammatory rant. Even more so in audio form, with the author himself narrating. I just think it would have been more appropriate to end the book after the last chapter and leave the ranting for an op-ed, or a podcast, or a post on X. A great example of this is another history buff who I highly respect: Dan Carlin. In his Hardcore History podcast, you get history. Obviously, any account of history is somewhat influenced by the narrator's worldview, but it's pretty straight forward history. If you want to hear all about Dan's personal opinion on the state of our democracy, or the mistakes we're making because we didn't learn from history, or any number of other reasons to share ones opinion, you listen to Common Sense, his other podcast. A little separation of fact and opinion in this case would have left a better impression, in my opinion.
May 8, 2025
For the most part "A Rage to Conquer" is interesting and well done.
Not really a book about "12 Battles" but more of a broad review of Western civilizations and empires, their history and culture and how they interacted before a arriving at a critical contest of arms. Incorporates everything from science and industry to opera to give some framework to the societies involved with an emphasis on biography. Accounts of the battles themselves are general overviews. Author is upfront about this in the introduction and the format works well.
Until.....you get to the prologue where Mr. Walsh goes on a strange, jingoist screed about - just a lot of things but especially extolling the virtues of combat and denigrating the current state of the West. Kind of odd coming from a music critic/screen writer/novelist who as far as I can tell hasn't been to see the elephant.
Not really a book about "12 Battles" but more of a broad review of Western civilizations and empires, their history and culture and how they interacted before a arriving at a critical contest of arms. Incorporates everything from science and industry to opera to give some framework to the societies involved with an emphasis on biography. Accounts of the battles themselves are general overviews. Author is upfront about this in the introduction and the format works well.
Until.....you get to the prologue where Mr. Walsh goes on a strange, jingoist screed about - just a lot of things but especially extolling the virtues of combat and denigrating the current state of the West. Kind of odd coming from a music critic/screen writer/novelist who as far as I can tell hasn't been to see the elephant.
December 6, 2024
You know those books in the discount section of Barnes & Noble, or when you're desperate and waited for the last minute gift for the family conservative and military buff? A Rage to Conquer: Twelve Battles That Changed the Course of Western History joins these overfilled sections with Michael Walsh's selective list of history. (Walsh spent eight years writing for the National Review and has collaborated with Andrew Breitbart).
For each chapter, 12 as one could guess, Walsh expands beyond the battles offering biographies of the key generals and leaders and general context for that point in history. Among those profiled are Achilles, Alexander the Great, Julius Caeser, Napoleon, Pershing and Patton. A list with no big surprises, but disappointing for its lack of variety.
While Walsh is detailed and has made efforts to be accurate in his depictions, in presenting his own opinions or conclusions he goes to some surprising places. While war, as Clausewitz puts it, is a continuation of politics by other means, here war serves to emphasizes Walsh's politics. Some of his claims or foci: women in combat leads to the loss of that conflict, Patton was a great general never mind his foul mouthed presentation, it was man speech! American war policy since 1945 is misguided and has never resulted in a victory.
Can't say I'd recommend this book, but it might appeal to conservative readers of military history.
I received a free digital version of this book via NetGalley thanks to the publisher.
For each chapter, 12 as one could guess, Walsh expands beyond the battles offering biographies of the key generals and leaders and general context for that point in history. Among those profiled are Achilles, Alexander the Great, Julius Caeser, Napoleon, Pershing and Patton. A list with no big surprises, but disappointing for its lack of variety.
While Walsh is detailed and has made efforts to be accurate in his depictions, in presenting his own opinions or conclusions he goes to some surprising places. While war, as Clausewitz puts it, is a continuation of politics by other means, here war serves to emphasizes Walsh's politics. Some of his claims or foci: women in combat leads to the loss of that conflict, Patton was a great general never mind his foul mouthed presentation, it was man speech! American war policy since 1945 is misguided and has never resulted in a victory.
Can't say I'd recommend this book, but it might appeal to conservative readers of military history.
I received a free digital version of this book via NetGalley thanks to the publisher.
February 5, 2025
Thank you for the free copy in exchange for an honest review.
2.5 stars
While I think the topics and battles being covered were fascinating, I feel the book is bogged down by the author's writing style. A lot of it felt like it could have either been removed or just reworded to not be so flowery? At some points I just thought to myself, "please just get to the point here."
The author's glorification of war is a bit odd. There is nothing wrong with studying historical battles/events or even finding them fascinating. But to suggest that war is not only necessary but inherent feels sad to me. War has pushed technological advancements before and, yes, a lot of history would tell you war is a constant. But, we also don't get many records of the people's average everyday life where war and bloodshed isn't the only thing on the table. So it's hard to say for certain what the actual truth of the matter is.
Mini point: women in war. There are plenty of women in the military now and who fight in wars even now. There is a common idea that I've seen fluttering around that suggests that if women had been the ones in power/positions to negotiate in past wars, the wars wouldn't have happened. Now, there is no guarantee that this would have been true, but based off the author's personal idea that men (exclusively) seem to crave and thirst for war, it could very well be.
Humans are greedy and selfish. But we are also kind and peaceful. War can bring about advancements but it's never seen as a good thing. War is painful no matter what comes out of it. People will still lose their lives, families will be displaced, people will be punished somehow. Past battles should be studied so we can learn from them, but war itself shouldn't be romanticized or looked fondly upon.
I enjoyed the topics and a lot of the information in the book (the factual information). The author's strange dive into personal "political rage" (as another reviewer put it) about 9/11 and the fall of the American golden age is a weird mix. Some stuff I can agree with, certain things weren't handled well following the attacks and it has impacted the American people even to this day.
But, the point about "political correctness" for Christianity? Kind of weird. The one point about the passengers of the flight that crashed into a field choosing "death over dishonor." Maybe they did choose to die with honour, we won't ever know truly. But they chose to fight back. To try and stop as many casualties as possible. They were incredibly brave for their sacrifice but they made the choice to be selfless and stop the hijackers from doing even more damage. It certainly wasn't a decision to die with honour and glory.
2.5 stars
While I think the topics and battles being covered were fascinating, I feel the book is bogged down by the author's writing style. A lot of it felt like it could have either been removed or just reworded to not be so flowery? At some points I just thought to myself, "please just get to the point here."
The author's glorification of war is a bit odd. There is nothing wrong with studying historical battles/events or even finding them fascinating. But to suggest that war is not only necessary but inherent feels sad to me. War has pushed technological advancements before and, yes, a lot of history would tell you war is a constant. But, we also don't get many records of the people's average everyday life where war and bloodshed isn't the only thing on the table. So it's hard to say for certain what the actual truth of the matter is.
Mini point: women in war. There are plenty of women in the military now and who fight in wars even now. There is a common idea that I've seen fluttering around that suggests that if women had been the ones in power/positions to negotiate in past wars, the wars wouldn't have happened. Now, there is no guarantee that this would have been true, but based off the author's personal idea that men (exclusively) seem to crave and thirst for war, it could very well be.
Humans are greedy and selfish. But we are also kind and peaceful. War can bring about advancements but it's never seen as a good thing. War is painful no matter what comes out of it. People will still lose their lives, families will be displaced, people will be punished somehow. Past battles should be studied so we can learn from them, but war itself shouldn't be romanticized or looked fondly upon.
I enjoyed the topics and a lot of the information in the book (the factual information). The author's strange dive into personal "political rage" (as another reviewer put it) about 9/11 and the fall of the American golden age is a weird mix. Some stuff I can agree with, certain things weren't handled well following the attacks and it has impacted the American people even to this day.
But, the point about "political correctness" for Christianity? Kind of weird. The one point about the passengers of the flight that crashed into a field choosing "death over dishonor." Maybe they did choose to die with honour, we won't ever know truly. But they chose to fight back. To try and stop as many casualties as possible. They were incredibly brave for their sacrifice but they made the choice to be selfless and stop the hijackers from doing even more damage. It certainly wasn't a decision to die with honour and glory.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 26, 2025
Walsh has chosen interesting battles, and protagonists of those battles – Achilles at Troy (although I am unclear how Troy changed the course of Western history, his discourse on the siege and battle is fascinating), Alexander, Caesar, Constantine, Aetius and Bohemond (you’ll have to read the book to find out who they were and what their battles were - worth the reading!), Napoleon (no question as to his influence on the course of Western history), and finally a brief and somewhat dilatory chapter covering Pershing, Patton and Nimitz that is less persuasive, less perceptive, than any and all of his preceding subjects.
Walsh examines each battle and its protagonists within the context of the social, cultural and moral standards of their times – their beliefs, the religious imperatives of their days – Greek gods, Roman pantheons, the early Christian doctrinal conflicts and controversies. He effectively, and persuasively, assesses and analyzes events and actions under employing the standards and morals of the times.
To cite one example, political convention, and correctitude, of today would tell us that the Crusades are exemplars of religious bigotry, colonial supremacy and xenophobia – the evils of Christian fanaticism. But as Walsh notes, citing Christopher Tyerman in his Chronicles of the First Crusade 1096-1099:
Crusading "appeared to embrace some of the constant and dangerous issues facing Western European Christians: how to earn salvation in a sinful world; how to lead a strenuously active, not just passive, good and faithful life; how to measure God's approbation of individuals and society on the gauge of physical victory and defeat; even how to ensure the political survival of their entire religion."
But as Tyerman also notes, and Walsh agrees, "The plundering of history to pronounce modern indictments serves no rational purpose and merely clouds understanding of a distant actuality whose interest lies as much if not more in its uniqueness and difference from other times, and especially from today. To observe the past through the lens of the present invites delusion."
The Crusades, in other words, must be judged by the standards, morals, and beliefs of their time, not ours. And Walsh does exactly this throughout his book, not just with the Crusades, but also ancient Greeks, the Romans, Napoleonic France... it is a valuable, instructive, interesting and worthwhile discourse.
Walsh examines each battle and its protagonists within the context of the social, cultural and moral standards of their times – their beliefs, the religious imperatives of their days – Greek gods, Roman pantheons, the early Christian doctrinal conflicts and controversies. He effectively, and persuasively, assesses and analyzes events and actions under employing the standards and morals of the times.
To cite one example, political convention, and correctitude, of today would tell us that the Crusades are exemplars of religious bigotry, colonial supremacy and xenophobia – the evils of Christian fanaticism. But as Walsh notes, citing Christopher Tyerman in his Chronicles of the First Crusade 1096-1099:
Crusading "appeared to embrace some of the constant and dangerous issues facing Western European Christians: how to earn salvation in a sinful world; how to lead a strenuously active, not just passive, good and faithful life; how to measure God's approbation of individuals and society on the gauge of physical victory and defeat; even how to ensure the political survival of their entire religion."
But as Tyerman also notes, and Walsh agrees, "The plundering of history to pronounce modern indictments serves no rational purpose and merely clouds understanding of a distant actuality whose interest lies as much if not more in its uniqueness and difference from other times, and especially from today. To observe the past through the lens of the present invites delusion."
The Crusades, in other words, must be judged by the standards, morals, and beliefs of their time, not ours. And Walsh does exactly this throughout his book, not just with the Crusades, but also ancient Greeks, the Romans, Napoleonic France... it is a valuable, instructive, interesting and worthwhile discourse.
October 26, 2024
To the educated, literate victor go the spoils of writing history in their favor. Often, said educated, literate victor is a white man of the western world, and so we have A Rage to Conquer. The title tells us these battles of which Michael Walsh writes will be of the western world, fair enough, but early on in the book it’s implied that it might as well be the whole world. And since there’s little to no written record of what other civilizations were up to when a white man from Europe wasn’t around to subjugate them, this book doesn’t cover people like Genghis Khan, the constant evolution of power through the Olmecs, Toltecs, Mayans and Aztecs. The conquest and management of competing tribes by the Incas across a large portion of South America. It barely touches on the fear struck in the hearts of other North American indigenous tribes by the Comanche, Apache and Sioux. And women! Bah! A cause of wars and an unnecessary distraction from war except for their ability to be the bearers of progeny for more wars of the future. Don’t tell the Vikings or Boudicca this. Walsh fairly reminds us that we should read about war in the context of the time in which it took place. But often interjects his own feelings and opinions into interpreting these events that convey to the reader that he would happily go back to the good old days where you beheaded someone when they offended your honor rather than attempt the wimpy progressiveness of the modern age. When I decided to read this, I was hoping to get more than a high-level blow-by-blow of battles set off by women, religion and pride but that’s mainly what this is-in the western world. If you’re looking for how war advanced things like transportation, technology and medicine (something that was impressive to observe over the course of the Great War as laid out in the World War I Museum in Kansas City) you won’t find it here. If you’re looking for to understand tactics, adaptability and interpreting the motives of your opponent, read The Art of War; it has stood the test of time for a reason. Occasionally interesting, this book was mostly boring to me for not covering something rarely written about, or not covering something regularly written about in a new or unique way. A complimentary copy of this book was provided by the publisher. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
November 28, 2024
Ever since man existed, war has followed. In the book A Rage to Conquer, author Michael Walsh takes the reader through a lengthy and sometimes painstaking analysis of twelve of the most important battles in Western history. Beginning with an overview of war by the philosopher Carl Von Clausewitz. From there the reader encounters a number of names, some instantly recognizable such as Achilles, Alexander, Constantine, Caesar, and Napoleon--and some that are not like Aetius and Bohemond. The final entry in the book is devoted to American war leaders Pershing, Nimitz, and Patton.
There is considerable detail about each of these formative wars and their place in history. I learned a lot from reading about these wars, far more than I learned in school. I was particularly interested in the characterizations of Alexander and Napoleon, but one chapter that stood out to me was the Crusades led by Bohemond and others as the forces of Christianity took on the Muslim world. While I heard about the Crusades, I had no formidable background to understand this early war of the worlds. The chapter on the American leaders was another favorite, especially the story of George Patton.
In a final chapter, the author takes on the events of 9/11/2001 as another failure by the United States. Walsh is right in that America has not won a war since World War II, and have made a mess of many military engagements since then. He is critical of both Democratic and Republican leaders, claiming the last great President was Ronald Reagan. This chapter will turn off some readers who may quit reading the book at that point. The writer has a right to state his opinion, just as the reader has the right to form their own opinions of the book.
I give the book four stars. At times the reading is tedious, and there are lots of bloody descriptions of war and atrocities that follow--rape, plunder, imprisonment, etc. But it all goes back to Clausewitz--war is hell, it is inevitable, and these wars had a formative experience on the world at the time they were fought. I reviewed an ARC and it offered no maps or illustrations which would have helped. Hopefully they make it in the publication.
I want to thank the author, publisher St. Martin's Press, and NetGalley for the opportunity to review this work. I attest this review is my own unbiased opinion of A Rage to Conquer.
There is considerable detail about each of these formative wars and their place in history. I learned a lot from reading about these wars, far more than I learned in school. I was particularly interested in the characterizations of Alexander and Napoleon, but one chapter that stood out to me was the Crusades led by Bohemond and others as the forces of Christianity took on the Muslim world. While I heard about the Crusades, I had no formidable background to understand this early war of the worlds. The chapter on the American leaders was another favorite, especially the story of George Patton.
In a final chapter, the author takes on the events of 9/11/2001 as another failure by the United States. Walsh is right in that America has not won a war since World War II, and have made a mess of many military engagements since then. He is critical of both Democratic and Republican leaders, claiming the last great President was Ronald Reagan. This chapter will turn off some readers who may quit reading the book at that point. The writer has a right to state his opinion, just as the reader has the right to form their own opinions of the book.
I give the book four stars. At times the reading is tedious, and there are lots of bloody descriptions of war and atrocities that follow--rape, plunder, imprisonment, etc. But it all goes back to Clausewitz--war is hell, it is inevitable, and these wars had a formative experience on the world at the time they were fought. I reviewed an ARC and it offered no maps or illustrations which would have helped. Hopefully they make it in the publication.
I want to thank the author, publisher St. Martin's Press, and NetGalley for the opportunity to review this work. I attest this review is my own unbiased opinion of A Rage to Conquer.
February 18, 2025
This book was somewhat maddening, at equal terms astonishing and confounding. While I have no problem recognizing and acknowledging the book as a work of history, I have reservations about recommending it, hence the three-star review.
At the outset, let me make clear that I listened to this book. It is, in my view, sometimes questionable for an author to read his or her work as a good writer does not necessarily make a good reader. Not true here, for all my criticisms of the book, the narration was superb.
On the plus side, the scholarship of this work is undeniable. The scope, breadth, and depth of the resources utilized by the author is incredible. But, the narrative of the book sometimes foundered on the scholarship with the author wandering relatively far afield to make points that really, in the context of the book, might not have needed to be made. Anyone looking for a book primarily about martial prowess should look elsewhere. The author provides long (sometimes to distraction) asides regarding religion and religious history, literature, theatre, and music, among other topics. This is not, in any sense of the word, a straightforward work on military history. While the lengthy discussions of social and religious factors that contributed to the battles discussed in the work certainly provide context for the battles, they also threaten to swamp what is supposed to be the primary focus of the book.
What bothered me most, and tempted me to shelve the book before it was finished, were the completely unnecessary swipes the author takes at other historians, current social mores, and post World War Two (particularly post-Ronald Reagan) America. Such comments are laced throughout the book, sometimes pulling the reading completely out of the primary story being told. But the book ends with what can only be viewed as a tirade in which he references some politicians and military figures by name and other only by description. The diatribe is wholly unnecessary to the book and, for me at least, constituted a sour ending.
I want to recommend this book, but I cannot. I also want to pan this book, but find I cannot do that either. Proceed with caution.
This is a review of the audiobook.
At the outset, let me make clear that I listened to this book. It is, in my view, sometimes questionable for an author to read his or her work as a good writer does not necessarily make a good reader. Not true here, for all my criticisms of the book, the narration was superb.
On the plus side, the scholarship of this work is undeniable. The scope, breadth, and depth of the resources utilized by the author is incredible. But, the narrative of the book sometimes foundered on the scholarship with the author wandering relatively far afield to make points that really, in the context of the book, might not have needed to be made. Anyone looking for a book primarily about martial prowess should look elsewhere. The author provides long (sometimes to distraction) asides regarding religion and religious history, literature, theatre, and music, among other topics. This is not, in any sense of the word, a straightforward work on military history. While the lengthy discussions of social and religious factors that contributed to the battles discussed in the work certainly provide context for the battles, they also threaten to swamp what is supposed to be the primary focus of the book.
What bothered me most, and tempted me to shelve the book before it was finished, were the completely unnecessary swipes the author takes at other historians, current social mores, and post World War Two (particularly post-Ronald Reagan) America. Such comments are laced throughout the book, sometimes pulling the reading completely out of the primary story being told. But the book ends with what can only be viewed as a tirade in which he references some politicians and military figures by name and other only by description. The diatribe is wholly unnecessary to the book and, for me at least, constituted a sour ending.
I want to recommend this book, but I cannot. I also want to pan this book, but find I cannot do that either. Proceed with caution.
This is a review of the audiobook.
March 27, 2025
I just finished A Rage to Conquer by Michael Walsh and here are my musings.
I have studied history but I haven’t spent a lot of time studying battles.. This book takes us on a journey through 12 of the most important battles in recorded history.
Our history is littered with wars raged over many things over the course of time. Julius Caesar was one of the leaders that was brought up! Firstly, one of my favorite places in my hometown was a place called Caesar’s camp. He was in that area around the time of one of his campaigns and it’s all very exciting! We learned a lot about the Romans in school and one of my favorite teachers was Mr Wright, my history teacher because he was so excited by history and it showed.. I thought this book would be exciting!
Now do not get me wrong, this book was obviously well researched, immaculately so but this book was like taking a stereo manual dry. It was loaded with info and told like a lecture from Professor Binns. There was no life to it.
If you are looking for a history book of wars with zero personality.. this is it. Right here! A lot of people prefer their books written this way but not me. I like to know the personality of the author and to hear their voice.
I learned a lot and I felt I got a lot out of the book though and it started a healthy debate between my husband and I.
3.5 stars. Personality would have sent this one to a near perfect score!
Thank you @stmartinspress for my gifted copy.
#aragetoconquer #stmartinspress #michaelwalsh #nonfiction #militaryhistory #historybook #bookreview #bookalorian #bookfiles #bookish #reader #war #booklover #bookloversoftiktok #bookchat #readingallday
I have studied history but I haven’t spent a lot of time studying battles.. This book takes us on a journey through 12 of the most important battles in recorded history.
Our history is littered with wars raged over many things over the course of time. Julius Caesar was one of the leaders that was brought up! Firstly, one of my favorite places in my hometown was a place called Caesar’s camp. He was in that area around the time of one of his campaigns and it’s all very exciting! We learned a lot about the Romans in school and one of my favorite teachers was Mr Wright, my history teacher because he was so excited by history and it showed.. I thought this book would be exciting!
Now do not get me wrong, this book was obviously well researched, immaculately so but this book was like taking a stereo manual dry. It was loaded with info and told like a lecture from Professor Binns. There was no life to it.
If you are looking for a history book of wars with zero personality.. this is it. Right here! A lot of people prefer their books written this way but not me. I like to know the personality of the author and to hear their voice.
I learned a lot and I felt I got a lot out of the book though and it started a healthy debate between my husband and I.
3.5 stars. Personality would have sent this one to a near perfect score!
Thank you @stmartinspress for my gifted copy.
#aragetoconquer #stmartinspress #michaelwalsh #nonfiction #militaryhistory #historybook #bookreview #bookalorian #bookfiles #bookish #reader #war #booklover #bookloversoftiktok #bookchat #readingallday
December 19, 2024
"A Rage to Conquer: Twelve Battles that Changed the Course of Western History," a sequel to Michael Walsh's "Last Stands" and published by St. Martin's Press, is an impressive compendium of cultural information relating to Western warfare. I am working from an ARC graciously provided to me by the publisher. Many readers will be well aware of the format employed here of identifying key battles and commanders and tracking warfare and its development. That said, this book is a good bit more than that. The author begins with a brief but vital examination of Clausewitz' thoughts on war. This identifies key thematic concerns that the author then explores as he examines the historical record. So far so good, but the title is more than a wee bit misleading: the battles, from antiquity to the present are here but serve as sort of touchstones for much broader and far ranging discussion of cultural concerns relating to war. Add to this that the author seems to hew actively to Thomas Carlyle's "Great Man Theory of History," and I would argue that battles here are far less significant than the focus on great commanders and the broad consequences of their actions as revealed in their campaigns. There is a lot going on here, and the work, while occasionally dense to the point of obscurity, is also quite engrossing at its best. This book is not for everyone. The author's views are anything but politically correct, but he has clearly done his homework, and if you have the time and patience, it is a rewarding read.
January 30, 2025
This is an interesting casual read if you're like me and love to get a different perspective on a historical event.
It is tainted with the author's writing style, who doesn't shy away from quoting and reflecting on these selected historical characters and events with his personal view and commentary, but also quotes from art, literature, and even pop culture references. (From Art of War to Shakespeare and Godfather).
He picks 12, as the title suggests, from the ancient period up to 9/11 (included).
I think this book can be enjoyed more as an audiobook; we have the feeling we're at this author's master class, although we can't argue back or question it definitely sparks relevant discussions.
Had Alexander been even Greater if he hadn't died so young like Mozart? Was Philip afraid of his wife because he found her sleeping with a tame serpent? I am sure there was more to her and his fear but we quickly move on to Zeus' prowess and Alexander's birth. Fast-paced read.
Instead of focusing on exhausting and impersonalized details for each battle, we get a sharp summary where we are offered a lot of research and facts, but also a personal analysis of these characters with many comparisons.
The pacing shows which subjects and themes the author prefers to delay and express opinion and detail against those facts and elements that are barely scratched. It's a book that gives a good notion of the existence of battles and characters in History to further research.
Thank you publisher for the copy for an honest review.
It is tainted with the author's writing style, who doesn't shy away from quoting and reflecting on these selected historical characters and events with his personal view and commentary, but also quotes from art, literature, and even pop culture references. (From Art of War to Shakespeare and Godfather).
He picks 12, as the title suggests, from the ancient period up to 9/11 (included).
I think this book can be enjoyed more as an audiobook; we have the feeling we're at this author's master class, although we can't argue back or question it definitely sparks relevant discussions.
Had Alexander been even Greater if he hadn't died so young like Mozart? Was Philip afraid of his wife because he found her sleeping with a tame serpent? I am sure there was more to her and his fear but we quickly move on to Zeus' prowess and Alexander's birth. Fast-paced read.
Instead of focusing on exhausting and impersonalized details for each battle, we get a sharp summary where we are offered a lot of research and facts, but also a personal analysis of these characters with many comparisons.
The pacing shows which subjects and themes the author prefers to delay and express opinion and detail against those facts and elements that are barely scratched. It's a book that gives a good notion of the existence of battles and characters in History to further research.
Thank you publisher for the copy for an honest review.
January 28, 2025
This was an interesting read for many reasons. I did have to go look at some reviews that were given, as I was curious why some would give it one star. "Conservative History" was one reason given, which I thought was rather humorous.
As a history teacher, I hold onto an unbiased approach, giving the facts and allowing students to make up their own minds. So, as I was reading through this book, the author laid out some great information, showing the rise and fall, and diving into aspects of battles that we should have given some attention to.
Being a female veteran, having women in the military is not a bad thing. Sorry, Mr. Walsh, I will disagree with you there. What I agree with him on, is that having female personnel in roles that they are not fully prepared for, or able to carry out. There are situations where having a female present could hinder. I am not super tall, but me trying to carry a 300 lb person off a battlefield would have been impossible. There are ways around it, but the lowering of standards for some roles is not a good idea. (Okay, coming off my soapbox now).
I enjoyed this read for what it was. A breakdown of battles, and their impact. I skipped the afterward after starting it. For personal political thoughts, I don't want to hear them. I don't care if it's celebrities, authors, the little kid down the street, I just don't enjoy it. The rest of the book, was interesting.
Thank you to NetGalley and the author for an advanced copy of this book.
As a history teacher, I hold onto an unbiased approach, giving the facts and allowing students to make up their own minds. So, as I was reading through this book, the author laid out some great information, showing the rise and fall, and diving into aspects of battles that we should have given some attention to.
Being a female veteran, having women in the military is not a bad thing. Sorry, Mr. Walsh, I will disagree with you there. What I agree with him on, is that having female personnel in roles that they are not fully prepared for, or able to carry out. There are situations where having a female present could hinder. I am not super tall, but me trying to carry a 300 lb person off a battlefield would have been impossible. There are ways around it, but the lowering of standards for some roles is not a good idea. (Okay, coming off my soapbox now).
I enjoyed this read for what it was. A breakdown of battles, and their impact. I skipped the afterward after starting it. For personal political thoughts, I don't want to hear them. I don't care if it's celebrities, authors, the little kid down the street, I just don't enjoy it. The rest of the book, was interesting.
Thank you to NetGalley and the author for an advanced copy of this book.
April 30, 2025
In this brilliant overview of Western military history, Michael Walsh looks at twelve pivotal battles from Western history (ancient through the twenty-first century) and makes his case for why these particular battles are critical to understanding global history. From Julius Caesar and Alexander the Great to Napoleon, Patton, and Nimitz, Walsh really covers all of Western history, devoting a chapter to each major battle and making his arguments for their contemporary, military, and long-term importance to Western history. Despite the obvious historical limitations of such an endeavour, Walsh’s writing is incredible, drawing on some fascinating scholarship and documents to really flesh out his arguments and capture these monumental historical events in ways which draw readers in and set up his argument. Deeply enjoyable for its length, intense detail, and complex positioning, readers will be immersed in this book and the different battles Walsh brings to life. Walsh has admirably tackled this project and demonstrates his skill as a historian and as a writer for popular audiences, so both hardcore history readers and popular history readers alike will enjoy this book. Well-written, enjoyable, and interesting, this is a fascinatingly unique new military history book that readers will love for its variety and larger historical argument.
Thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for the advance copy.
Thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for the advance copy.
January 29, 2025
An entertaining book about the great battles of history. The author does not attempt to give a military history. Rather, it is based on the personalities that drove men to war. The author makes the obvious statement that war is the principal agent of societal change.
While entertaining, the book has very a dangerous subtext: War is a human necessity that drives civilization and should be valued as such. The author glorifies war and warriors and sees both as the primary motivation for progress. The author reminds me of the old men in All Quiet on the
Western Front who Paul encounters after serving on the front line. They speak of glory and patriotism, but Paul only knows pain and death. This book glorifies men like Alexander and Napoleon who defeated every army which came in the way of world conquest. They were no different than Hitler and Putin, although history has treated them more favorably. They sought conquest and glory on the backs of their soldiers. The true heroes of history are Churchill and Zelenskyy who refuse to allow tyrants to run over them or their people.
I give this book two stars because it is an entertaining view of military history. However, the message conveyed is very dangerous in a world armed with nuclear weapons.
While entertaining, the book has very a dangerous subtext: War is a human necessity that drives civilization and should be valued as such. The author glorifies war and warriors and sees both as the primary motivation for progress. The author reminds me of the old men in All Quiet on the
Western Front who Paul encounters after serving on the front line. They speak of glory and patriotism, but Paul only knows pain and death. This book glorifies men like Alexander and Napoleon who defeated every army which came in the way of world conquest. They were no different than Hitler and Putin, although history has treated them more favorably. They sought conquest and glory on the backs of their soldiers. The true heroes of history are Churchill and Zelenskyy who refuse to allow tyrants to run over them or their people.
I give this book two stars because it is an entertaining view of military history. However, the message conveyed is very dangerous in a world armed with nuclear weapons.
December 18, 2024
A Rage to Conquer
By Michael Walsh
This is an amazing book. The author discusses twelve battles that shaped the course of history. But what he gives us is so much more: in-depth information about the combatants; what made the victors so much greater than not only the losers, but even their contemporaries on the winning side; what caused them to be the men they were at such pivotal moments; and most importantly, how their battles impacted history.
Here we see Achilles, Alexander the Great, Napoleon, Julius Caesar, Constantine, right down to George S. Patton, Pershing and MacArthur. Throughout the book there are so many ideas about the hows, the whys, and the results that it will take a while after finishing the book to process them all.
Mr. Walsh is obviously a very intelligent and thoughtful man. In fact the only problem I found with this book, was that I needed to have my dictionary by my side while reading it. I am a well-educated woman with a wide vocabulary, but words like "tetragrammatonic" were not on my radar!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the chance to read an ARC of this gem of a book.
By Michael Walsh
This is an amazing book. The author discusses twelve battles that shaped the course of history. But what he gives us is so much more: in-depth information about the combatants; what made the victors so much greater than not only the losers, but even their contemporaries on the winning side; what caused them to be the men they were at such pivotal moments; and most importantly, how their battles impacted history.
Here we see Achilles, Alexander the Great, Napoleon, Julius Caesar, Constantine, right down to George S. Patton, Pershing and MacArthur. Throughout the book there are so many ideas about the hows, the whys, and the results that it will take a while after finishing the book to process them all.
Mr. Walsh is obviously a very intelligent and thoughtful man. In fact the only problem I found with this book, was that I needed to have my dictionary by my side while reading it. I am a well-educated woman with a wide vocabulary, but words like "tetragrammatonic" were not on my radar!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the chance to read an ARC of this gem of a book.
February 21, 2025
ADDITION TO PREVIOUS REVIEW:
Although the title refers to 12 battles, this is more a study of military commanders and what made them brilliant, as well as an all-round survey of the relevant history, much more than a rehash of battle maneuvers, etc. Also, the author does not hesitate to voice his opinions, which makes the book not only more enjoyable but also delightfully refreshing!
If you harbor any doubt about the brilliance and insight of this book, read the final section first: AFTERWORD: THE BATTLE OF 9/11. This should be a Must-Read for everyone.
"....a good history should read like a good biography or novel: not merely a collection of facts--that is the job of journalists--but rather a ripping yarn, with a point, and a purpose."
Those are the author's words, and he most assuredly accomplishes his purpose in this book. It is one of the best history books I have ever read. There were so many quotes I wanted to highlight, I finally realized I couldn't possibly fit them all on a page. The copy I read is a library book, but I am going to buy my own copy so I can review sections at my own convenience and even highlight particularly memorable parts. Seldom do I finish a book only to want to go back to the beginning and read it all over again!
Although the title refers to 12 battles, this is more a study of military commanders and what made them brilliant, as well as an all-round survey of the relevant history, much more than a rehash of battle maneuvers, etc. Also, the author does not hesitate to voice his opinions, which makes the book not only more enjoyable but also delightfully refreshing!
If you harbor any doubt about the brilliance and insight of this book, read the final section first: AFTERWORD: THE BATTLE OF 9/11. This should be a Must-Read for everyone.
"....a good history should read like a good biography or novel: not merely a collection of facts--that is the job of journalists--but rather a ripping yarn, with a point, and a purpose."
Those are the author's words, and he most assuredly accomplishes his purpose in this book. It is one of the best history books I have ever read. There were so many quotes I wanted to highlight, I finally realized I couldn't possibly fit them all on a page. The copy I read is a library book, but I am going to buy my own copy so I can review sections at my own convenience and even highlight particularly memorable parts. Seldom do I finish a book only to want to go back to the beginning and read it all over again!
November 22, 2024
A nonfiction book that covers the twelve most important battles in Western history. According to the author, “war is foundational to every society throughout history.” He also writes that to rely on women in combat is destined to lose. Walsh starts with Troy to 9/11, showing great admiration for the military tactician Napoleon. Throughout history, he writes, great nations and great commanders fought to destroy an opponent. He brings history to life as he considers a group of courageous commanders and the battles they waged that became crucial to the course of Western history.. This book was interesting but I do not always agree with his strong opinions. It is worth reading and thinking about war. The author write about military history and the complex interplay between war and the world.
Disclaimer: I received an arc of this book from the author/publisher from Netgalley. I wasn’t obligated to write a favorable review. The opinions expressed are strictly my own.
Disclaimer: I received an arc of this book from the author/publisher from Netgalley. I wasn’t obligated to write a favorable review. The opinions expressed are strictly my own.
December 27, 2024
A review of the history leading up to and the impact on western civilization of twelve major battles, not only in terms of the battles but art and culture as well. With a correction of the Von Clausewitz maxim "War is merely the continuation of policy with other means." the author analyzes war which has been a part of all human cultures and has shaped societies as a force for change as well as the threats to Western civilization, particularly the threat of Islam. With a look at the personalities in and around each of the battles this book was well researched and paced (up to the chapter on the American generals and battles of WWII which combined three battles into a single chapter) I really enjoyed this books look at the history of war and western civilization. I received a free ARC of this book from the publisher through the Goodreads First Reads giveaways.. I would rate this book 3.5 stars if Goodreads allowed half stars.
November 16, 2024
A Rage to Conquer was such an interesting and informative read about some of the greatest battles in western history. Although it did take me a long time to read it just because of the length and how complex the language was, I did find it really interesting to pick up when I was wanting a non fiction history read. The chapters were incredibly long because each battle and leader was a single chapter, which I think could've been broken down into different parts with multiple chapters in each part to make it a bit easier to digest and give more stopping places. The Afterword about 9/11 was the only thing I really had an issue with because it felt very disjointed from the book and all that was coming through was the author's political rage. It just did not seem like the same book at all and really wasn't necessary, felt like a completely different theme and voice. But overall, really enjoyed the book and learned a lot from it!
November 20, 2024
This book focuses on the twelve battles that changed western history and how war is such an intrinsic part of human culture. This book gave me a lot to think about. Some of the battles chosen surprised me or I didn't know anything about them going in. That made it interesting to read just how important battles I didn't know were to history. My favorite analysis was Achilles at Troy because I love Greek mythology and how it is still such a part of our culture all these years later. Each chapter covers a battle, making for long chapters. I found the book dense at times and had to read it one chapter a sitting. The author's opinions also seep into the text at times. This is the sort of book you need to take your time with or all the historical detail can become overwhelming.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.
March 9, 2025
Walsh’s more culture-focused approach to history and war works for the most part. It’s not the stale recounting of battle formations, military tech, and basic political trends. It is nothing less than the expression of a genius who imposes his will on world history. Generals and their adversaries leap off the page and are always larger than life.
That said, Walsh gets a little sloppy in his research, leaning way too hard on dubious sources like Gibbon and Bart Ehrman, which causes him to give a lopsided and inaccurate picture of the forces at play at a given moment. This gets better when he gets into more modern battles.
Also, the first chapter discussing his theory of war is good, his last chapter on the War on Terror comes off like a rant that doesn’t exactly fit.
Overall, pretty good and fun to read. Just get through it with a critical eye.
That said, Walsh gets a little sloppy in his research, leaning way too hard on dubious sources like Gibbon and Bart Ehrman, which causes him to give a lopsided and inaccurate picture of the forces at play at a given moment. This gets better when he gets into more modern battles.
Also, the first chapter discussing his theory of war is good, his last chapter on the War on Terror comes off like a rant that doesn’t exactly fit.
Overall, pretty good and fun to read. Just get through it with a critical eye.
February 24, 2025
From early battles, such as Aetius at the Catalaunian Plains, to more recent battles, including Admiral Nimitz at the Battle of Midway, Michael Walsh explores twelve battles, the leaders and their impact on history. While I have an interest in World War I and Ii, I found myself skimming over some of the earlier battles before reaching those that held my interest. While Walsh’s subject was well researched there were times that it felt like reading a textbook. Walsh also offers his personal opinion on women in battle as well as his political views. I put this book down several times and it took me a while to finish. For true history fans, however, this book offers an interesting look at some important battles. I would like to thank NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for providing this book.
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