Historical & Political Biographies

A biography of the unsung general at Churchill's side throughout the Second World War, instrumental in events from Indian independence to the founding of NATO.

Billy in the Wars is the illustrated memoir of ex-Rolling Stone Bill Wyman, recalling his experiences as a young boy growing up in wartime Britain. Bill brings history to life through the personal lens of his childhood memories, where grim anecdotes of war are punctuated by moving moments of childhood innocence and joy. Three-year-old William George Perks (now Bill Wyman) was living with his parents and brother in working-class Sydenham, South London, when war broke out. Over the coming years he experienced endless terrifying hours spent in air-raid shelters, the constant droning of doodlebugs overhead, a near miss with a German fighter-bomber, and evacuations from London to new rural adventures. Out of a backdrop of constant fear and hunger, Bill learned the importance of persistence, courage and resilience; values that ultimately led him out of his neighbourhood and on to a vast and exciting future.

An amazing story that is still largely unknown in the English-speaking world - the plot to blow up Napoleon, an early terrorist attack on Europe's most powerful man, with striking parallels to today.

The definitive inside account of the 2016-20 coalition government under Enda Kenny and Leo Varadkar.

This concise and insightful biography delves into the extraordinary life and political legacy of Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, better known as Lula-the enigmatic President of Brazil.From humble beginnings in the heart of poverty-stricken Brazil, Lula's journey is nothing short of remarkable. Born into a world of hardship, he transformed himself into a charismatic leader who has championed the rights of the marginalized and fought tirelessly for social justice.The book unveils the pivotal moments that shaped his convictions and propelled him onto the global stage. From his early days as a factory worker to his union activism and eventual presidency, Lula's determination and persona captivated the hearts and minds of millions.Whether you're a history enthusiast, a political junkie, or simply curious about the life of an extraordinary leader, this biography is a must-read.

Midway, it's a movie about WWII, version 2018. Great movie! So Dick Best and Murray are in a complete dive bomb, bullets flying everywhere. Dick has the aircraft carrier dead in his sights. "Murray, 1,800 feet, 1,400 feet, 1,000 feet. Well, center cut. Direct hit! Murray, nice shot!" Somehow they are pulling out of the dive, and they have three zeroes on their tail. Best to Murray, tail gunner. "Get those zeroes off my ass!"We come into this world alone, and we die alone--period. But while we are on this spinning ball of dust, we need one another! I'm so fortunate that I had a lot of people that have helped me. We all need people.I had so much fun writing this book. Like how Anthony Bourdain wrote Kitchen Confidential, I just wanted to write something that was entertaining and true. I think I got it!

"Within the pages of this book, we embark on a compelling journey through the annals of political history, where the words and wisdom of some of the most influential figures of the past century have been meticulously curated. From the eloquence of Franklin Delano Roosevelt to the vision of John F. Kennedy, the indomitable spirit of Sir Winston Churchill to the moral clarity of Abraham Lincoln, and the passion of Martin Luther King Jr. to the resilience of Nelson Mandela, this collection of political quotes offers a glimpse into the minds of those who shaped the course of nations.Mahatma Gandhi's philosophy of nonviolence, Albert Einstein's reflections on the human condition, and George Orwell's warning against the perils of authoritarianism are all part of this rich tapestry. We also delve into the timeless insights of John Emerich Edward Dalberg-Acton, 1st Baron Acton, whose wisdom on power and its potential for corruption remains as relevant today as it was in the past.These quotes, drawn from public speeches, writings, and historical records, serve as a testament to the enduring power of words to inspire, provoke thought, and ignite change. As we embark on this literary journey, we invite you to explore the profound insights and enduring wisdom encapsulated within these pages, shedding light on the complex, ever-evolving world of politics."

About age seventy-four, living in Dallas, Texas, Marcia joined a local church active in missions. After taking a course on missions, she joined two mission trips: Africa and Kazakhstan. Sharing her adventures through missions and extensive European travels may serve to open your eyes as they did hers. Back home, Marcia captured her memories on canvas and chronicled them in her diary. The powerful, holy God was there with Marcia every step of the way.Eventually, Marcia developed a keen interest in national politics and soon became even more disillusioned with the liberal media spewing out nothing but lies that grew bigger, more frequent, and more detrimental over the years. This book compares today's political climate with a partial view of American history. The annals of ancient history draw a picture of nefarious men seeking power, total control of a society through division, violence, changing the language, and political correctness gone amuck, all waiting for America to crash and burn.Changing the course of history is paramount to reaching the decisive final goal. Who knows? This book could be among the last historical accounts. Since history does indeed repeat itself, history must necessarily be destroyed. Keep the populace as ignorant and misinformed as possible--if necessary, by force. The formula has never changed throughout the annals of history, multimillions losing their lives as a result.Slavery has existed since the beginning of recorded history dating back to Ur over four thousand years ago. The city of Ur in Mesopotamia was unearthed in the early 1900s. This was the city God called Abraham to leave and to go to Harran. The detestable practice of slavery existed in Ur and still exists today. Human trafficking, drug addiction--all alive and well. As slaves to an evil cause, the BLM gang will not see past their nose. Ignorance is foolish and dangerous. Socialism, the final divisive step to communism, has been forced down the throats of our children and uninformed adults for years. This story addresses CRT, woke, atrocities of the Biden Administration, and the catastrophe on our southern border.I live in Texas; I see the truth with my own eyes. You only know what you know. Keep learning what you do not know because there is nothing new under the sun.

If you have ever found yourself stuck in difficult situations with no path forward, this book is for you.In PathfYnder: How I Use Personal Courage and Emotional Control to Face Fear, Build Success, and Get What I Want, Retired Army Master Sergeant Erinn Watkins shares a lifetime of lessons learned and guides readers toward the next best step to becoming their best selves. Join Erinn on this journey through reliving a vulnerable childhood, into detailing a rollercoaster 29-year career in the Army facing targeted bullying, toxic leadership, and sexual harassment; no experience is off-limits. Learn her secrets to success despite enduring conflicts and hostile work environments - the journey is as illuminating as it is empowering.One of the first women in the military to become an Army Pathfinder, MSG Erinn Watkins is an accomplished Veteran with an impressive resume. Hailing from a proud tradition, the Pathfinder is a unique role that originated from American forces in WWII - specially-trained "Pathfinders" were dropped into Europe in advance of D-Day to lay the groundwork that eventually paved the way to success for the Allied Forces. They were the ones who found the best path through the field of battle.In PathfYnder, Erinn lays the path for YOU to navigate ever-changing environments and challenges and shows that anyone can be successful - despite adversity.

These are stories of my childhood. African elders pass down family histories through stories. Some stories were told by uncles, some were experiences of family times in the Ndiuhu, Ezeofor village. All the stories are real, but fictionalized to protect the identities of the characters. For three years, as a boy, my family fled to the village as the Biafran War raged. A turbulent time that also provided rich opportunities to immerse in village life with relatives also displaced from various cities. As an inquisitive child, I absorbed these rich ancestral histories.

Wing Commander Eric Benjamin was no stranger to danger or excitement. In an action-packed career as part of the RAF Volunteer Reserve (RAFVR), he was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross twice for his bravery under fire. He flew Fairey Battles with No. 150 Squadron during the Battle of France, Main Force Avro Lancasters with No. 61 Squadron during the Battle of Berlin, and De Havilland Mosquitoes as an elite Pathfinder Master Bomber in the latter stages of the war. He survived being shot down on his first operation, when his air gunner was severely wounded, and was among the last RAF aircrew to be evacuated from France in the summer of 1940. He was pulled clear of the mangled wreckage of a Vickers Wellington that crashed in flames during a spell as an instructor, narrowly escaping with his life for a second time, and 'starred' as a Flight Commander interviewed for Pathé News after a successful raid on Berlin in 1943. Towards the end of 1944, he achieved his ambition of flying Mosquitoes, and was selected and trained as a Master Bomber, operating as part of No. 54 Base in No. 5 Group and helping to mop up what was left of German industry and military might. It was from one of these sorties that his aircraft failed to return.Authored by Sean Feast and Eric's daughter Jeannie, the book includes numerous previously unpublished photographs of Eric, his colleagues, and the aircraft he flew. An inveterate letter writer, Eric once said of flying that there was 'no greater sport'. He died as he had lived, doing what he loved best.

Was Henri Déricourt a loyal spy, a traitorous double agent or a heroic triple agent? Jean Overton Fuller's book is a fascinating exposé on the shadowy world of espionage and counter-espionage during the Second World war seen through the eyes of one of its most controversial figures. Perfect for readers of Ben Macintyre, Ewan Montagu and Philippe Sands. Parachuted into France to receive and dispatch British aircraft which landed secret agents, Déricourt was awarded with the Croix de Guerre with Palm and the Legion d'Honneur for his contribution to the war effort. Only later, when it transpired that he had been in regular contact with the Gestapo, did question marks arise about him. He was even charged with treason but was acquitted at his court martial. Was there more to this case than met the eye? Was Déricourt loyal to Allies even if he had been in contact with the Germans? Or was he a traitor who had caused the death of many of his fellow agents? Jean Overton Fuller sifts through the information, sorting truth from lies, to uncover the truth of Déricourt's wartime activities. Through numerous interviews and letters Overton Fuller questions not only Déricourt himself but also many of other main participants in the story from Germany, France and England. Déricourt: The Chequered Spy is an absorbing account that transports the reader to the murky world of Second World War espionage.

Joe Crosson, a brave and skilled pilot, became a national hero between the world wars flying mercy missions in the North. He pioneeredair routes throughout Alaska and foresaw the future of commercial aviation.

Step into the captivating life of Saartjie Baartman, an ordinary and curious 18-year-old whose dreams led her from the familiar shores of Cape Town to the distant lands of England and Paris. Little did she know that her voyage would take a tragic turn, transforming her life into a harrowing tale of exploitation and dehumanization. In this powerful biography, Saartjie's true story is finally given a voice, allowing her to recount her experiences firsthand. From the initial promise of work as a nursery maid to the shocking reality of being displayed as an object of desire in London and Paris, her journey is one of heartbreak, resilience, and survival. As you delve into Saartjie's own words, you will bear witness to the fear and anguish of a displaced soul in foreign lands. Her poignant narrative sheds light on the struggles faced by countless individuals torn from their homelands, forced to navigate the trials of being foreign nationals in strange and unwelcoming territories. Supported by meticulous research and accurate references, this book also draws a striking parallel to the present day, where the erosion of human rights continues to fuel the alarming rise of human trafficking and bonded labor. Saartjie's story serves as a timeless reminder of the enduring fight for justice and equality, resonating even more powerfully in a world that grapples with these same issues two centuries later. Hottentot Venus is a tribute to a remarkable woman who suffered the indignities of exploitation, but whose legacy fuels the ongoing struggle for dignity and human rights. Her voice, once silenced, now echoes through these pages, urging us to confront our past, understand our present, and forge a more compassionate future.

Escape from Hell by G.S. Willmott documents the history of POW escapes. Each chapter focuses on a particular character, conflict of prison camp, and follows the ingenious, determined, and often fruitless attempts made to leave enemy territory and get back to home ground. Some of these stories may be familiar, and others, not. All have one thing in common; the burning desire of the soldier not to be a victim.Told with G.S. Willmott's trademark mix of history and dramatisation, Escape from Hell is up there with his best.- Terry AmosDetailing the accounts of escapes and of the few lucky escapees and some of the positive actions along with the unspeakable atrocities meted out in concentration death camps, Garry has managed to make what is essentially a gruelling and brutal subject highly readable. Robbie Burns "Man's inhumanity to man, makes countless thousands mourn" unfortunately sums it all up. Reading this has left a lasting impression. Historically accurate, factual and graphic this is a well researched and written book. Thank you Garry Willmott.- Bruce Cook

Wenn eine Region, eine Stadt Jubiläum feiert, dann ist das immer ein Moment, einmal kurz innezuhalten und sich zu erinnern. Dies möchten wir mit diesem Buch tun. Manchmal sehr persönlich,in anderen Texten historisch animiert. 650 Jahre sind auf jeden Fall eine lange Zeit - und auf eine 650-jährige Geschichte kann Krefeld im Jahr 2023 zurückblicken. Was wir in den nächsten 650 Jahren erleben werden, das weiß niemand. Auch nicht, was nachfolgende Generationen über die Stadt Krefeld schreiben werden.Vielleicht mag diese kleine Büchlein dazu beitragen, manch Persönliches zu konservieren. Uns würde es freuen.

In Surrender: My Journey from Guerrilla to Grandmother, Katherine Power recounts the events of her dramatic journey from anti-war activist to revolutionary guerrilla, through 23 years of life on the run where she built a family that she had to leave in a dramatic surrender, serving a prison sentence where she found grace and meaning.Now, as an elder, Power reflects on her inner journey and its lessons-how cultivating inner peace and practicing compassion are the foundation of powerful action for change in the world.

Introducing the "Bush Family: Politics to Philanthropy" Book Bundle!Discover the compelling and influential legacy of the Bush family across four captivating volumes. This limited-time offer brings together the remarkable stories of one of America's most prominent political dynasties, spanning generations and diverse domains.Book 1: From Prescott to George W.: The Bush Family Saga Unearth the origins of the Bush family's journey, from their early strides in the oil industry to their emergence as iconic figures in American politics. Dive into the saga of resilience, public service, and unwavering commitment to cherished ideals that defines the Bush family narrative.Book 2: Barbara Bush: A Life of Grace and Service Explore the life of an extraordinary woman, Barbara Bush, whose grace, strength, and unwavering commitment to literacy and family values left an indelible mark on the nation. Her legacy extends far beyond the White House, touching hearts and minds across generations.Book 3: Jeb Bush and the 21st Century Republican Party Join us on a journey through the political career of Jeb Bush, a pivotal figure in shaping the Republican Party's modern direction. From his leadership in Florida politics to his pursuit of the presidency, Jeb's story embodies the enduring influence of the Bush family on the political landscape.Book 4: Bush Family Business: Oil, Politics, and Legacy Uncover the complex relationship between the Bush family and the energy sector in "Book 4." Delve deep into the intricate web of oil, politics, and their profound impact on both domestic and international affairs. This volume unravels the legacy of a family deeply connected to the ever-evolving landscape of energy and its lasting consequences.This exclusive bundle provides an unprecedented opportunity to explore the complexities, triumphs, and challenges that have shaped the Bush family's enduring legacy. Their story transcends politics and philanthropy; it is a testament to the boundless potential of individuals and families to make a profound and lasting impact on our world.Don't miss this chance to own the complete "Bush Family: Politics to Philanthropy" Book Bundle. Order now and embark on a captivating journey through the lives and legacies of a family that has left an indelible mark on American history and beyond.Limited-time offer. Order now to secure your copy of this extraordinary book bundle.

Brought to you by Penguin.Aiden Aslin joined the Ukrainian marines in 2018, compelled to defend his adopted homeland from the growing threat of Russian invasion. In February 2022, as Russia mounted a full-scale offensive, Aiden and his unit were stationed at the frontline at Mariupol.Pinned down at a Mariupol steelworks, after a month-long siege and running out of supplies, Aiden was part of the mass surrender of over a thousand Ukrainian troops, in April 2022. Then his real ordeal began.Singled out for his British passport, Aiden was interrogated, tortured, stabbed, turned into a propaganda zombie, tried by a kangaroo court and then sentenced to death. A victim of a catalogue of abuses of international law, Aiden struggled to cling on to any hope of survival. Certain that he was going to be executed, he was eventually freed in a prisoner exchange and permitted to return home.In Putin's Prisoner, Aiden will tell the full, harrowing story of his time fighting in Putin's war, of his six months in Russian captivity, and of his hardened resolve to defend the freedoms of the people of Ukraine.(c)2023 Aiden Aslin & John Sweeney (P)2023 Penguin Audio

Choose Your Battles delves into the lesser-known narrative of America's courageous servicewomen and the formidable challenges they face. In this candid book, Colonel (Ret) Irene V. Glaeser chronicles her unique military journey as a woman, offering a stirring account imbued with pride and inspiration. Beginning her Army career in 1983, Glaeser ascended the ranks while serving across diverse locations: from Cold War-era West Germany to South Korea, the Middle East, East Asia, Australia, and numerous stateside posts where she served.Through her captivating and often humor-infused anecdotes, Glaeser reveals the tenacity demanded of servicewomen as they balance family and career. Set against the backdrop of trying circumstances, whether arduous or isolating, her stories resound with the unwavering strength intrinsic to the lives of America's extraordinary women in uniform.

Ce roman ne peut être que le souvenir d'un jeune homme à peine sortie de l'adolescence, marin de la marine nationale.Il relate de cette histoire un court moment de sa vie, un passage de l'existence, fabuleuse, féérique et mortelle où se mélange la découverte, la joie, le bonheur, la peine, le dégoût, l'alcoolisme, la folie, la mort, la contamination et puis... ! Et puis ces long mensonges, le rejet se son être et de sa nationalité, de ces amis aux vies écourtées, de ces douleur supportées.Une cinquantaine d'années se sont passées. Dans un déni encore présent, les souvenirs se sont quelques peu émoussés, les dates et les lieux peuvent être légèrement altérés, ou bien divergents, mais le fil rouge du vécu reste présent, ancré au plus profond de son être.

The first family named Dow in America landed in 1637, escaping from the persecution of the English kings and the Anglican Church as a part of the 'great migration' begun by the Pilgrims 17 years earlier.Two hundred and seventy years later, descendent George W. Dow captained the only seven-masted sailing vessel ever built-the Thomas W. Lawson-on its maiden cross-Atlantic voyage. Encountering unfathomable weather, and monstrous winds, tides, and waves as it approached the English coast, the Lawson slipped her anchors and sunk among treacherous rocks in the Scilly Isles. The schooner, its cargo, and 16 sailors were lost, but 'lucky' Captain Dow and his engineer were heroically saved from the rocks the next day.This story is an account of how Captain Dow was the culmination of the Dow family's evolution from immigrants in a primitive, 17th century foreign land, to seafaring as an occupation, as a new United States and global economy began to emerge. And, his life also was the last of the Dow's New England-based, sea faring existence, as the Captain's descendants-already five generations and counting-spread from Boston to homes, careers and lives far-flung from Maine and New England.

William Redfern is Australia's first medical graduate. His pioneering work in public health medicine is acknowledged with the William Redfern Oration given at the annual congress of the Royal Australasian College of Physicians.Redfern was a surgeon's mate aboard HMS Standard during the 1797 Nore mutiny. For his involvement he was sentenced to death and spent three years in Coldbath Fields prison, England's cruelest jail, before being transported to New South Wales. The opening chapters narrate Redfern's training as a surgeon; the Nore mutiny; his court-martial; his imprisonment in England and transportation to NSW.Redfern is sent to Norfolk Island as a convict to work as a surgeon in the hospital. He spends seven years there during the era of Joseph Foveaux, John Piper and surgeon D'Arcy Wentworth. He earns an absolute pardon; returns to Sydney following the overthrow of Governor William Bligh and is appointed surgeon at the old George Street hospital. He treats the imprisoned Bligh, who had been a captain aboard a ship involved in the Nore mutiny. Governor Macquarie makes him the health inspector of convict ships and Redfern becomes his personal physician and a close confidant of Macquarie. Redfern helps plan Sydney's "Rum hospital" and is the supervising surgeon there; also has a large private medical practice. In 1819 he resigns from the hospital when not appointed as Principal Surgeon and quits medicine after Commissioner Bigge, who was inquiring into Macquarie's liberal emancipist policies, questions his abilities and qualifications. Bigge also cancels his appointment as magistrate. The tumultuous early colonial years in New South Wales are revealed through Redfern's personal life and medical experiences.The closing chapters describe Redfern's successes in medicine, banking and agriculture. He becomes one of the most respected members in the colony but, as an emancipist, he was shunned socially. He becomes an activist for emancipist civil rights and sails to London with Edward Eagar to petition the British Parliament. Years later William Redfern enrolls in medical studies at Edinburgh University while overseeing the education of his oldest son.

Never before has anyone explored the mind, soul, and heart of Ronald Reagan. The Search for Reagan explores the challenges and controversies in Reagan’s life and how he successfully dealt with each, depicting a man who was never as conservative as some conservatives wanted him to be, but rather as conservative as he was comfortable being—a man who wanted to win on his own terms and integrity.