Throughout history, Military leaders have asked men to face death with courage and pride. As society changed and technology advanced. The role of the general changed too. In THE MASK OF COMMAND. John Keegan explores four different leadership styles and how they reflect their times.

Alexander the Great is the “heroic” leader, risking his life alongside his men. Wellington is the “anti-hero” — a gentleman, prepared to fight but without Alexander’s theatrics. Ulysses S. Grant, the “unheroic” leader. Considered himself no better than his men. Making him the ideal democratic leader. Adolf Hitler is the “false-heroic” leader, relying on past glory and simulated heroism. While directing his troops from miles away. In his brilliant conclusion, Keegan promises a fifth type of leader for the nuclear age: a “post-heroic” leader, who acts only after clear, intellectual thought.