by Mitchell Yockelson
This book gives a detailed account of the life and times of General Douglas MacArthur. While learning of MacArthur's feats, the reader gains an insightful appreciation of the ups and downs of the twentieth century from World War II up to the Korean War. MacArthur was the son of a Union Army Civil War veteran and graduated from West Point, the school he later became superintendent of. Like his father, he was sent to the Philippines in a military capacity when it was an American overseas possession and befriended its people. He later waged decisive battles in World War II. Even though he was driven from the Philippines by the Japanese, he never lost faith and regained his strength in Australia.
MacArthur was a sharp dresser and a man of his own ideas. More than once he circumvented orders to achieve the outcome that he thought was best. He had words with more than one U.S. president, but he always commanded respect from the government and was duly recognized for his feats. There were a few women in his life, and he eventually married and had one son, Arthur MacArthur IV.
I was glad that I read this book because I came away knowing much more about twentieth century U.S. history and the life of Douglas MacArthur. Before he was just a name to me. Now he represents a man who fought for his country with strong convictions that made America a better place. I wish that I had been taught more about him in high school. Anyone who wants to complete their vision of American and world military history should read this book.
Please note that I received a complementary copy of this book from Book Sneeze in return for a review on this blog and a commercial website. I was not obligated to make a positive review.
