Alan Axelrod identifies 18 smaller wars that led to great changes in history, from the Afghan Civil War that precipitated the rise of the Taliban to the Algerine War in 1815, seen as the first war on terror, to King Philip’s War in 1675 that, in proportion to the population at the time, was the costliest war in American history and changed the colonies forever. Axelrod takes a fascinating look at the turning points in world history that people often overlook. Filled with more than 75 maps, illustrations, and paintings. An in-depth and gripping read for people who want to know more about important historical events.
100 Turning Points in American History is devoted to the critical decisions, key events, and breakthrough inventions and discoveries that shaped our nation.
Immediately after the armistice was signed in November, 1918, an American journalist asked Paul von Hindenburg who won the war against Germany. He was the chief of the German General Staff, co-architect with Erich Ludendorff of Germany’s Eastern Front victories and its nearly war-winning Western Front offensives, and he did not hesitate in his answer. “The American infantry,” he said. He made it even more specific, telling the reporter that the final death blow for Germany was delivered by “the American infantry in the Argonne.” The British and the French often denigrated the American contribution to the war, but they had begged for US entry into the conflict, and their stake in America’s victory was, if anything, even greater than that of the United States itself. But How America Won WWI will not litigate the points of view of Britain and France. The book will accepts as gospel the assessment of the top German leader whose job it had been to oppose the Americans directly - that the American infantry won the war - and this book will tell how the American infantry did it.
The Middle East is often a pressure cooker of upheaval and the threat of war. Complex dynamics are at work, both culturally and politically, and understanding conflict in this region starts with understanding both recent and ancient events. Noted history writer, Alan Axelrod, PhD, breaks down the stereotypes and biases and helps readers not only understand what has been happening during the last 100 years, but why it has happened, who was involved, and what might happen in the future. Supplemental maps are also included.
Now in paperback! Military Book Club® Main Selection History Book Club® Featured Alternate * The battle that transformed a group of common soldiers into the modern-day Marine Corps Miracle at Belleau Wood begins in June 1918 at Les Mare Farm in France with just 200 U.S. marines, who spilled their blood to prevail against impossible odds, resisting an overwhelming German force of thousands and turned the battle back against the enemy, saved Paris, saved France, and saved the Allied hope of victory. Called “the Gettysburg of the Great War” by many at the time, it rescued America and its allies from almost certain defeat. This book tells the riveting story of the modern marines as America’s fiercest and most effective warriors, the world’s preeminent fighting elite. Miracle at Belleau Wood is the story of an epoch-making battle--a battle that elevated the Corps to legendary status and forever burned them into the American imagination. Praise for Miracle at Belleau Wood “Axelrod brings us back vividly to the shocking casualties of ‘the war to end all wars.’” —Bing West, author of No True Glory, former Assistant Secretary of Defense “Alan Axelrod has perfectly captured the embodiment of U.S. Marines and their unparalleled Esprit de Corps. . . . A must read!” —Jay Kopelman, author of the best-selling From Baghdad with Love “Axelrod is one of America’s great military historians. He’s done it this time with riveting non-stop action that reads like the best of Hemingway’s frontline reports plus the Marine Corps novels of W.E.B. Griffin. Axelrod pushes you right into the action, onto the battlefield, and never lets up.” —Paul B. Farrell, JD, PhD, syndicated columnist for Dow Jones’s MarketWatch, former Staff Sergeant in the US Marine Corps Praise for Patton: A Biography “Like Patton at his best: polished, precise, and persuasive.” —Kirkus Reviews
The compact history of a giant country. American history is one of those subjects that students frequently labor over and can seem like a random collection of names, dates, and events. Understood as a collective biography and free of the cheerleading found in many text books, the fully updated fifth edition of The Complete Idiot's Guide® to American History explains the changing tides in America's most pivotal periods. ? From a seasoned author and researcher ? The most current and comprehensive series title on American history ? Heightened interest right now in the question of how America got where we are - a question that can only be answered by an understanding of history
An argument settler--and starter--for Civil War buffs who want to know which side had the better soldiers: Armies South, Armies North definitively compares the military forces of both sides. Civil War buffs are always arguing over which side had the better soldiers. Armies South/Armies North by Alan Axelrod helps readers reconsider their understanding of America’s most harrowing war. Axelrod is the author of more than one hundred books with a passion for military history and leadership. Each chapter of his new book compares the military forces with both quantitative and qualitative measures. Axelrod analyzes the equipment, the leadership and strategies, and the men who fought in each army, with additional focus on lesser known flash points during the war.
A battle ready guide to the deadliest war in American history Completely revised for the Sesquicentennial, The Complete Idiot's Guide® to the Civil War, Third Edition is a comprehensive overview of America's bloodiest war. From the first shots fired at Fort Sumter to Lee's surrender at Appomattox, this book embodies the latest scholarship, offering fascinating stories of the men and women who fought bravely and often died for a cause they believed in. The book features a clear chronology of major events, detailed explanations of key battles such as Gettysburg, Chattanooga, and Chancellorsville. Author Alan Axelrod offers intimate impressions and anecdotes from generals and soldiers alike, and strategies of war leaders such as Sherman, Lee, and Grant.
The good, the bad, and the ugly behind the NWO The "New World Order" (NWO) is a conspiracy theory describing the evolution, or existence of one-world government administered by the powerful elite. Now Alan Axelrod offers an understandable look at what the NWO really means to people and lets the reader decide which theories are correct- or whether perhaps it's a little bit of every proposed theory. He discusses: • The Knights of Templar, the Illuminati, the Masons, ancient and modern-day religionists and how they paved the way for a possible Fourth Reich • The link between the lost island of Atlantis, Hitler, and the first President Bush with the concept of a future one-world government • The United Nations, Yale University's Skull and Bones society, the Rockefellers, Morgans, Rothschilds, and Kennedys
The Great War ate men, machines, and money without mercy or remission. At the end of 1915, the German army chief of staff, Erich von Falkenhayn, believed he knew how to finally kill the beast and win the war. On Christmas day, 1915, Falkenhayn sent a letter to Kaiser Wilhelm II proposing a campaign to demoralize Britain, whose industrial might and maritime power were the foundation of the alliance against Germany, while also knocking France out of the war. He wrote that the “strain on France has reached breaking point …. If we succeed in opening the eyes of her people to the fact that in a military sense they have nothing more to hope for, that breaking point would be reached and England’s best sword knocked out of her hand.” His plan was to attack a single point the French perceived as so vital that they would be compelled “to throw in every man they have.” Falkenhayn concluded: “If they do so, the forces of France will bleed to death” or, as he put it later, the “French army would be bled white.” Falkenhayn’s target of choice was Verdun, a place that, throughout virtually all of the history of Europe, had been a fortress. Located within a loop of the Meuse River, it occupied a strategic blocking position in the Meuse River valley. As recently as the Franco-Prussian War of 1871, Verdun had been the last of the French fortified cities to hold out against the German onslaught. After that war, it had been vastly augmented, so that it was now a circle of detached forts surrounding a central citadel. The town of Verdun itself, also fortified, was likewise encircled by forts distributed in a five-mile radius. The combined massive complex guarded not only passage through the river valley region, but also dominated a key railroad junction leading to points south, southwest, west, and north in France. Along with the related, but separate, Battle of the Somme, Verdun was among the most deadly battles in history. To understand this struggle is to understand all of World War I, including the principal stated motive of Woodrow Wilson for bringing the United States into the “European War” in April 1917. For him, Verdun proved both France’s determination to win at all costs and the likelihood that, without help, it would be defeated nevertheless. The unparalleled barbarity of Verdun, a product of the Old World, convinced the American president that only the principal nation of the New World could finally alter the grim course of human destiny. While many, both in 1916 and in the decades that followed, saw Verdun as a bloody monument to the inescapable futility of war, Wilson saw in it a hope for fighting what he would call a “war to end all wars.”
You’re no idiot, of course. You know that World War I was “the Great War,” and you’re familiar with its images: muddy trenches, poison gas, and a no–man’s–land of craters and barbed wire. But when it comes to understanding its causes, why it dragged on for four years, and how it set the stage for World War II, you’re lost behind enemy lines. Don’t wave the white flag just yet! The Complete Idiot’s Guide® to World War I gives you a comprehensive overview of the first global war, from the assassination of the Archduke Franz Ferdinand to the Treaty of Versailles. In this Complete Idiot’s Guide®, you get: • Broad coverage of the secret treaties and en-tangling alliances that led to war • Comprehensive analysis of some of history’s bloodiest battles, including the Somme, Tannenburg, Gallipoli, and Belleau Wood • Expert commentary on the development of weapons such as the tank, the dreadnought battleship, poison gas, and the German U-boat • Valuable insights into the war’s influence on this century’s political and cultural development
From George Washington to George W. In the course of the 2008 presidential campaigns, Americans became involved in the political process at a level rarely seen in modern history. But even before the historic race, George W. Bush's tenure had left many Americans wondering how we got to where we are today. The Complete Idiot's Guide® to the American Presidency takes readers from the first president to the one who just stepped down-exploring the legacies of the greatest leaders and the black marks against others, and showing the ways in which they left their stamp on both the nation and the presidency itself. • Written by the author of the highly successful The Complete Idiot's Guide® to American History, Fifth Edition • Appendices that list the presidents and their vice presidents, the presidential elections, and further reading
You’re no idiot, of course. You know that World War I was “the Great War,” and you’re familiar with its images: muddy trenches, poison gas, and a no–man’s–land of craters and barbed wire. But when it comes to understanding its causes, why it dragged on for four years, and how it set the stage for World War II, you’re lost behind enemy lines. Don’t wave the white flag just yet! The Complete Idiot’s Guide® to World War I gives you a comprehensive overview of the first global war, from the assassination of the Archduke Franz Ferdinand to the Treaty of Versailles. In this Complete Idiot’s Guide®, you get: • Broad coverage of the secret treaties and en-tangling alliances that led to war • Comprehensive analysis of some of history’s bloodiest battles, including the Somme, Tannenburg, Gallipoli, and Belleau Wood • Expert commentary on the development of weapons such as the tank, the dreadnought battleship, poison gas, and the German U-boat • Valuable insights into the war’s influence on this century’s political and cultural development
Drawing on General George Patton’s decisive moves and distinctive style, Alan Axelrod's Patton on Leadership gives executives and managers straightforward, practical lessons in dynamic, results-oriented management. This guide covers how to develop a leadership attitude, communicate effectively, inspire others, and more, with period photographs of the Patton throughout his career. “What can a civilian corporate leader learn from the combat tactics of General George S. Patton Jr.? Find out by reading Alan Axelrod’s Patton on Leadership. He takes leadership wisdom of one of America’s greatest and most colorful combat generals and applies it to contemporary civilian corporate organizations. Organized around Patton’s quotations and writings, each being related to specific corporate situations, Axelrod presents an in-depth understanding into the general’s leadership style and demonstrates that Patton’s ‘genius was being able to capitalize on his own intuitive notion of leadership.’ This book provides a perspective insight of a leadership methodology that may be a valuable asset to many corporate executives.”—Rutherford B. Johnson, commander, Georgia Chapter, George S. Patton Jr. Historical Society “I have no doubt that the leadership skills and personal attitude practiced by General Patton can be used effectively in both corporate and government managerial positions. Current and future leaders would do well to master those skills and to practice the vital requisities of honesty and integrity for which General Patton was noted and without which, leadership is highly suspect.”—William A. Burke, Major General (Ret.)
The good, the bad, and the ugly behind the NWO The "New World Order" (NWO) is a conspiracy theory describing the evolution, or existence of one-world government administered by the powerful elite. Now Alan Axelrod offers an understandable look at what the NWO really means to people and lets the reader decide which theories are correct- or whether perhaps it's a little bit of every proposed theory. He discusses: • The Knights of Templar, the Illuminati, the Masons, ancient and modern-day religionists and how they paved the way for a possible Fourth Reich • The link between the lost island of Atlantis, Hitler, and the first President Bush with the concept of a future one-world government • The United Nations, Yale University's Skull and Bones society, the Rockefellers, Morgans, Rothschilds, and Kennedys
From George Washington to George W. In the course of the 2008 presidential campaigns, Americans became involved in the political process at a level rarely seen in modern history. But even before the historic race, George W. Bush's tenure had left many Americans wondering how we got to where we are today. The Complete Idiot's Guide® to the American Presidency takes readers from the first president to the one who just stepped down-exploring the legacies of the greatest leaders and the black marks against others, and showing the ways in which they left their stamp on both the nation and the presidency itself. • Written by the author of the highly successful The Complete Idiot's Guide® to American History, Fifth Edition • Appendices that list the presidents and their vice presidents, the presidential elections, and further reading
Understand the rise of a dangerous ideology. There is renewed interest in the Nazi Party that ruled Germany as a fascist state from 1933 to 1945 under the leadership of Adolf Hitler. However, the events that led to the rise of Nazism--and the near victory of the Axis Powers in World War II--date back to the economics and politics of 1860s Europe. From facts about the iron-fisted rulers who forged a new German empire to clear analysis of the Third Reich's psychological, political, and military underpinnings, learn all there is to know about the rise and fall of Hitler's Nazi Germany, including: The unification of Germany and the formation of the first empire under Prussian chancellor Otto von Bismarck How the Versailles Treaty's disarmament of Germany after World War I failed to ensure peace Adolf Hitler's evolution from an imprisoned revolutionary to Nazi dictator The Nazi reign over Germany and occupied countries--including the military strategies of World War II The German military officers who plotted to assassinate Hitler The justifications behind the Nuremberg trials
A battle ready guide to the deadliest war in American history Completely revised for the Sesquicentennial, The Complete Idiot's Guide® to the Civil War, Third Edition is a comprehensive overview of America's bloodiest war. From the first shots fired at Fort Sumter to Lee's surrender at Appomattox, this book embodies the latest scholarship, offering fascinating stories of the men and women who fought bravely and often died for a cause they believed in. The book features a clear chronology of major events, detailed explanations of key battles such as Gettysburg, Chattanooga, and Chancellorsville. Author Alan Axelrod offers intimate impressions and anecdotes from generals and soldiers alike, and strategies of war leaders such as Sherman, Lee, and Grant.
The Middle East is often a pressure cooker of upheaval and the threat of war. Complex dynamics are at work, both culturally and politically, and understanding conflict in this region starts with understanding both recent and ancient events. Noted history writer, Alan Axelrod, PhD, breaks down the stereotypes and biases and helps readers not only understand what has been happening during the last 100 years, but why it has happened, who was involved, and what might happen in the future. Supplemental maps are also included.
Discover the stories that shaped our nation Sure, you know that America's colonists won our independence from Great Britain, that Washington became our first president, and that Lincoln freed the slaves. But these key events merely scratch the surface of our nation's history and the moments that helped shape the United States into the rich, diverse, and complex country it is today. America: History Examined explores the defining moments, decisions and people who have written our country's story up to now, including: The first people of America, with new archaeological and ethnographical findings An examination of the origins and course of the American Revolution The signing of the Declaration of Independence and creation of our Constitution The rise of Andrew Jackson and parallels with current American Populism A revealing look at the different causes that led to the American Civil War The World Wars and how they led to America's emergence as a superpower A critical examination of the Vietnam War and how it tested American pride Growing partisan gridlock, globalism vs. nationalism, and the dichotomy between the Obama and Trump presidencies
Few leadership titles have been written on the lives of women. Alan Axelrod, noted historian and business management expert, reveals how Elizabeth I overcame daunting obstacles to win intense loyalty and lead England to greatness. The queen's long reign offers lessons on: developing a leadership attitude and image enhanced by personal dynamism; becoming an effective coach and mentor skilled at nurturing creativity; manipulating others--subtly and ethically--and knowing and anticipating the "enemy." How did Elizabeth meet the challenges that faced her, managing not only to stay alive and keep her imperiled nation afloat, but also to win the intense loyalty of her people and lead England to greatness? Historians and biographers have offered many explanations. Elizabeth I, CEO takes a fresh view, exploring issues that are relevant to leaders--especially business leaders--of today.
Who are the pivotal figures in American history, the men and women who have helped shape us as a people and have influenced how we perceive ourselves as Americans? In this companion to his popular 1001 Events That Made America, Alan Axelrod looks into all areas of our collective past and highlights the famous as well as the infamous, the virtuous as well as the notorious, from the nation’s earliest days to the present. Serving up history in lively, accessible bites, the book presents a Who’s Who in American politics, arts, science, business, religion, and pop culture, along with concise explanations of each figure’s historical significance. Featured personalities range from Jesse James to Al Capone, Harriet Beecher Stowe to Betty Friedan, George Washington to George W. Bush, Harriet Tubman to Martin Luther King, Jr., Stephen Foster to Elvis, John L. Sullivan to Muhammad Ali, Edwin Booth to Marlon Brando, Washington Irving to Thomas Pynchon, and John Jacob Astor to Bill Gates. Packed with information and insight, 1001 People Who Made America gives readers a deeper understanding of what it means to be an American. The appealing design and easy-to-read format invite browsing and sharing.
This guide will give you an overview of American history from early, Native American history to modern times. It covers the milestones of the country's history, provides biographical sketches of the most important figures of each era, gives a chronologies of the nation's leaders, and defines key historical terms.
ACE Your Midterms and Finals A new concept in test prep for a new generation of students These class-tested guides feature: Midterms and final examinations--one from each of the top universities throughout the country An introductory essay defining the nature and scope of the course, including its goals and what instructors expect students to learn A step-by-step guide to writing the essay and fully explained answers to essay questions--complete with discussion and notes from the professor
Astronomy is an ancient science on the cutting edge. Although it's been around for more than 5,500 years, astronomers say that we've learned more than 90 percent of what we know about the universe in just the last 50 years. Of this body of knowledge, a disproportionate amount has been acquired in the past decade, with each new year yielding more information than the last. The Complete Idiot's Guide to Astronomy, Third Edition, covers these new advances and discoveries and is repositioned to focus more on exciting, cutting-edge cosmology topics and less on backyard astronomy.
These class-tested guides -- complete with detailed explanations of answers and test-taking strategies -- feature: -- 11 Midterms and 11 Final Examination -- from top universities -- An introductory essay defining the nature and scope of the course, including its goals and what instructors expect students to learn -- A step-by-step guide to writing the essay and fully explained answers to essay questions -- complete with discussion and notes from the professor
You're no idiot, of course. You know the American Revolution started when those guys in Boston threw some tea off a boat. Or was it when Paul Revere made his famous ride? Let's face it: when it comes to knowing about our nation's struggle for independence, our grade-school memories are about as trustworthy as Benedict Arnold. Don't blush red (or white, or blue) yet! The Complete Idiot's Guide® to the American Revolution is an authoritative overview of the conflict, filled with little-known facts that will enlighten even the most educated history buff. In this Complete Idiot's Guide®, you get:
Provides an overview of the people, events, and ideas that shaped the twentieth century, covering wars and political conflicts, innovations in technology, and the contributions of such great minds as Sigmund Freud and Albert Einstein
Contains 11 midterms and 11 final exams from colleges; real-world practice on real-life exams; a review of the US History course; advice from the teachers who teach the courses; and, methods for mastering history.
Give me liberty or give me death." "Houston, we have a problem." "I did not have sexual relations with that woman." American ears ring with these and hundreds of other declarations, spun out of history. Walt Whitman claimed to "hear America singing," but, mostly, we hear America talking. Out loud. This book features more than 300 quotations from influential Americans, including Benjamin Franklin, Muhammad Ali, George W. Bush, Paris Hilton, and many more! This book chronologically records the historical timeline of America—one voice at a time.
A handbook that covers it all. There are many issues surrounding campus safety that students should be prepared for. This unique guide covers everything from dorm rules, frat house myths and realities, and protecting property, to staying out of trouble on the Web, at the ATM, and elsewhere, to drinking, drugs, dating, spring break, staying healthy, how to handle different kinds of people and places, and what to do in emergencies.
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