History

Reading Lists

2023 National Hispanic Heritage Month Reading List

In an ever-evolving world where diversity and inclusivity take center stage, it is imperative for military professionals to expand their horizons and understand the remarkable stories and accomplishments of individuals from various backgrounds. The Hispanic-American community has significantly contributed to the tapestry of American history, demonstrating unwavering dedication, resilience, and leadership across a spectrum of endeavors.

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Military Book Reviews

White Sun War: The Campaign for Taiwan

Ryan ensures the readers do not lose the human factors. Friction, uncertainty, fear, and exhaustion beguile the characters on the ground throughout the campaign. The taxes these characteristics impose on each of the military actors are ever present in the text. Perhaps more critically, Ryan pulls on his voluminous knowledge of military history to offer compelling notional instances by which the miscalculation of senior leaders can lead rational actors to make decisions that, in hindsight, are anything but rational.

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Military Book Reviews

Gavin at War: The World War II Diary of Lieutenant General James M. Gavin

Much of the history of World War II has already been written and analyzed, but researchers and historians continue to find new angles for readers. Previously classified documents continue to surface, providing new insights into the events that shaped the Greatest Generation. One such document is the recently published diary of Lieutenant General James M. “Jumpin Jim” Gavin. Gavin wrote his diary without thought of being published, which some enthusiasts will find interesting since Gavin wrote five books between 1947 and 1976.

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Military Book Reviews

Commanding Petty Despots: The American Navy in the New Republic

Commanding Petty Despots: The American Navy in the New Republic is a superbly researched volume by Dr. Thomas Sheppard, assistant professor of military history at the U.S. Marine Corps University Command and Staff College. Dr. Sheppard examines the early days of the American navy, focusing on the complex relationship between the first naval captains and the civilian leadership of the new republic.

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