The Fifteen Decisive Battles of the World: From Marathon to Waterloo
by Edward Shepherd Creasy
CreateSpace (16 February 2016)
What’s it about?: A book that chronicles historical conflicts that were real turning points on the course of civilisation. Edward Shepherd Creasy analyses fifteen battles that shaped the history, culture, and development of nations and groups.
My opinion: Great reading. Creasy’s analysis and overall storytelling ability are meticulous, and really bring these conflicts to life. I am no soldier. Never have been; have no desire to be. However, I do love the classics, and like so many, I found myself deeply engrossed in the Battle of Marathon, where the Greeks stood against the heavily armed and ascendant Persians, like I was learning about it for the first time all over again. Really, every single chapter is something. The Battle of Tours; the Siege of Yorktown which saw the American revolutionaries triumph over the British; and of course, the Battle of Waterloo where Napoleon saw his final defeat, changing Europe forever. And others, of course. Every battle has its consequences, but these have permanently altered the course of history.
Fun fact: Peter Thiel read this book as he was deciding what to do about the “Gawker problem.” It’s not hard to see why. The Fifteen Decisive Battles of the World could be interpreted as something of a masterclass on what it means to be strategic, and how to emerge victorious and shape events, rather than be shaped by them.
The Fifteen Decisive Battles of the World is certainly not the only text on military history and strategy. However, it is somewhat unique in that it is a product of a solid classical education, the kind you really don’t see anymore. That is why it’s a must-have on my history shelf. If you enjoy studying military history, and unpacking the factors that led to various victories and defeats, then this text is for you.
Lawrence Deveney 