Great Captains

by Theodore Ayrault Dodge

Great Captains by Theodore Ayrault Dodge is a historical book that provides an in-depth look at the lives and military strategies of some of the greatest commanders in history. The book covers the period from ancient times to the late 19th century, and includes biographies of famous military leaders such as Alexander the Great, Julius Caesar, Napoleon Bonaparte, and George Washington.Dodge's writing style is engaging and informative, and he provides detailed accounts of the battles and campaigns that these great captains fought. He also examines their leadership styles and the impact they had on their troops and the course of history.The book is divided into chapters, each focusing on a different commander, and includes maps and illustrations to help readers visualize the battles and strategies discussed. Dodge also provides analysis and commentary on the tactics and decisions made by these famous leaders, offering insights into their successes and failures.Overall, Great Captains is a comprehensive and fascinating read for anyone interested in military history or the lives of great leaders. Dodge's extensive research and engaging writing style make this book a valuable resource for students, historians, and military enthusiasts alike.1889. A course of six lectures showing the influence on the art of war of the campaigns of Alexander, Hannibal, Caesar, Gustavus Adolphus, Frederick, and Napoleon. These lectures were delivered in Boston, under the auspices of the Lowell Institute, in January, 1889. There conciseness needs but the apology of scant time. Little can be said about Alexander or Napoleon within the limit of an hour. The sketches are of necessity meager. They are a summary in part of a larger work, of which the author hopes soon to begin the publication, in which a volume will be devoted to each great captain, and mention made of other soldiers who have contributed to the growth of the art of war. The lectures aim to indicate briefly what we owe to the great captains, and to draw an intelligible outline of their careers, which may be filled in by reference to the extended narratives of others. Historical detail often assumes prominence in the mind to the exclusion of general form. It is the latter which it is attempted to portray.This scarce antiquarian book is a facsimile reprint of the old original and may contain some imperfections such as library marks and notations. Because we believe this work is culturally important, we have made it available as part of our commitment for protecting, preserving, and promoting the world's literature in affordable, high quality, modern editions, that are true to their original work.

Genres: History, Military History, Nonfiction

232 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1989

About the author

Theodore Ayrault Dodge was an American officer and military historian. He fought as an Union officer in the American Civil War, and lost his leg at the Battle of Gettysburg; as a writer, he devoted his writings to both the American Civil War and the great generals of Ancient and European history.

Reviews

[Jed · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Napoleon flared like a comet. Frederick burned like a planet, or a fixed star - less brilliant, less startling, but ever constant."

Tremendous book - fantastic introduction to the lives of the five greatest Captains to ever live. While being familiar with the others, I hadn't appreciated Gustavus enough, and, after reading, it seems a shame that he's typically only placed alongside Frederick, Hannibal etc. by military historians.

[Steven Leonard · Rating 5 out of 5]

A brilliant and worthwhile read that highlights the art of war through the lens of six of the greatest battle captains in history.