Fifteen Decisive Battles of the Western World (Barnes & Noble Library of Essential Reading) Book

IMHO, the only proper way to read this book is to consider it not only a historical book, but a historical document itself. being written in 1851, three years after a string of revolutions shook Europe, and when napoleonic wars still were in memory of living people, it reflects the opinions of it's age and time. Even choice of battles (never mind the Marathon, or Chalons, which is not that surprising, but there are Athenian expedition to Sicily, Metaurus, Teutoburg forest, Poltava) reflects this. There is not a single battle fought outside Europe included. And on several occasions author clearly states that it's the European, germanic, and particularly anglo-saxon side that was destined to 'bring forth civilization' to the 'savage and barbaric' parts of the world. Occasionaly disgusting in its blatant eurocentism, it does have it's shining moments, when gallant foe is appriciated, such as Joann of Arc, or Napoleon and his marshals. A bit dry, but enjoyable reading for someone interested in military history.