Book Reviews

Independent Criticism

Interview with NPR

"With this usefully idiosyncratic and provocative work, Hanson may succeed the late Stephen Ambrose as America's laureate of military history. But where Ambrose's tone is ultimately elegiac, reflecting on the deeds and character of a past 'greatest generation,' Hanson's is sharp edged and confrontational, linking past history and present policy.... He makes [his arguments] with conviction and a genuine sense of wanting history to provide valuable lessons."—Publishers Weekly

"Each human life has an impact on others, creating ripples that eventually affect future generations. Here, Hanson (classics, California State Univ., Fresno; The Western Way of War) argues that the outcomes of certain battles have had far-reaching effects on American culture…. [W]ell written…clear and easy to read…. [T]he arguments are lucid…. Highly recommended."—Library Journal

"[A] worthy—and timely—outing in military history."—Kirkus Reviews

"Fascinating and well–executed.... Hanson is a superb storyteller andd a clear and concise writer."—The Washington Times

"Like any good classicist, Victor Davis Hanson accepts the primacy of military history in human affairs. In RIPPLES OF BATTLE, a sequel of sorts to his masterful CARNAGE AND CULTURE, he shows the fascinating repercussions of three lesser–known battles. You cannot fully understand Hiroshima, the bitterness of the Old South, or the Golden Age of Athens without reding this gem of a book."—Robert D. Kaplan, author of WARRIOR POLITICS