The General vs. the President

by H. W. Brands
The General vs. the President cover
Good Books rating 4.23
History, Political, Military, Adventure
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  • ID: 9801
  • Added: 2026-01-03
  • Updated: 2026-01-03
  • ISBN: 9780385540582
  • Publisher: Anchor
  • Published: 2016-10-11
  • Reviews: 3

The General vs. the President delves into the intense conflict between two of America's most formidable figures, Harry S. Truman and Douglas MacArthur, as they clashed over the nation's direction in the aftermath of World War II. Against the backdrop of the Korean War and the looming threat of nuclear conflict, the book vividly portrays the dramatic events that unfolded, from Stalin's blockade of West Berlin to the daring Inchon landing. It's a gripping account of how these two titanic personalities shaped the course of American history. Written by a two-time Pulitzer Prize finalist, this book offers a highly readable take on the clash of these two titanic figures during a period of hair-trigger nuclear tensions. The narrative brings to life the contrasting visions of Truman and MacArthur, set against the turbulent backdrop of a faraway war and the domestic terrors conjured by Joseph McCarthy.

Reviews
2For66 · 2016-10-28
fantastic 4.50

The book is an engaging narrative of the battle between General Douglas MacArthur and President Harry S Truman during the Korean War. It provides a detailed and captivating account of their conflict.

This book is a fantastic read for history buffs. The author does an excellent job of bringing to life the tense and dramatic events of the Korean War era. The detailed descriptions and engaging narrative make it a page-turner. The conflict between Truman and MacArthur is portrayed in a way that highlights the complexities and high stakes of their decisions. It's a gripping account that offers valuable insights into the political and military strategies of the time. The book is well-researched and provides a comprehensive look at the events leading up to and during the Korean War.

Quick quotes

    This book is an engaging narrative of the battle between General Douglas MacArthur and President Harry S Truman during the Korean War.

    Brand's detailed and captivating account of their conflict.

    A gripping account of the power struggle between President Harry Truman and General Douglas MacArthur during the Korean War.

Los Angeles Times · 2016-10-14
great 4.00

Brands' take on the clash of two titanic figures is highly readable and engaging. The book provides a compelling narrative of the conflict during a period of high nuclear tensions.

This book is a must-read for anyone interested in historical accounts of political and military conflicts. The author's writing style is engaging and makes the complex events of the Korean War era accessible and intriguing. The clash between Truman and MacArthur is portrayed with a depth that highlights the personal and strategic dimensions of their conflict. The book offers a fresh perspective on a critical period in American history, making it both educational and entertaining.

Quick quotes

    Brands' highly readable take on the clash of two titanic figures in a period of hair-trigger nuclear tensions.

    The book provides a compelling narrative of the conflict between Truman and MacArthur.

    A gripping account of the power struggle between President Harry Truman and General Douglas MacArthur during the Korean War.

Goodreads · 2016-10-11
excellent 4.20

The narrative is engaging and entertaining, showcasing Brands' mastery of storytelling. The book provides a detailed and captivating account of the power struggle between Truman and MacArthur.

This book is a fantastic read for history enthusiasts. The author does an excellent job of bringing to life the tense and dramatic events of the Korean War era. The detailed descriptions and engaging narrative make it a page-turner. The conflict between Truman and MacArthur is portrayed in a way that highlights the complexities and high stakes of their decisions. It's a gripping account that offers valuable insights into the political and military strategies of the time.

Quick quotes

    The President is exceptionally well-written and H.W. Brands proves to be a masterful storyteller.

    The narrative is engaging and entertaining as it delves into the power struggle between Truman and MacArthur.

    A gripping account of the power struggle between President Truman and General MacArthur over military strategy and nuclear weapons during the Korean War.

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