MacArthur Reconsidered: A New Look at the Supreme Commander at War

Douglas MacArthur (1880–1964) is one of the most renowned generals in U.S. history. He was dramatic in his leadership, was perceived as a conquering general, and was fearless in the face of enemy fire. With his dark sunglasses, distinct prop pipe, and campaign hat, he projected American confidence and resolve, and many idolized him in his heyday. Historian Ellman (Axis Defeat in World War II) seeks to puncture that image down to its core by critically examining MacArthur’s leadership during World War II and the Korean conflict. The author’s evaluation is based on a set of questions focused on specific military practices. He concludes that MacArthur’s weaknesses overshadowed his strengths as a military leader. The structure of this polemic reflects the general’s wartime leadership within the context of three retreats and three advances in the Pacific Theater between 1941 and 1951. This book is not a comprehensive biography, but elements of MacArthur’s life do come into play as background information.