This magnificent biography by the world’s foremost expert on the life of George S. Patton portrays the many faces of the general with uncompromising insight: the gruff, demanding public front known—and feared—by millions; the sensitive, intellectual visage shown to intimates; and the self-conscious, emotional, religious man only a handful of people ever met. Martin Blumenson deftly explores the life of this American hero, a paradoxical man who inspired others to greatness but who sometimes questioned the greatness within himself. Patton: The Man behind the Legend, 1885–1945 is a dramatic and memorable portrait of a complex American hero, a man called the greatest combat general of modern times.
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"Patton was an interesting character. He had to overcome personal, learning challenges (dyslexia) as a child. Eventually, he learned to over achieve in almost everything he did. WWII in Europe might have ended six months sooner if Patton had his way."
— Steve (4 out of 5 stars)
“Martin Blumenson has written an extraordinary book about my father.”
— Ruth Ellen Patton Totten“A gem of a biography, full of insights on the highly complex character of George S. Patton. It is gracefully written and—as we expect from Blumenson—authoritative. No previous work on Patton can match it.”
— Stephen E. Ambrose, New York Times bestselling author“Blumenson (author of The Patton Papers and a one-time member of the general’s staff) has written a detailed and persuasive study of Patton’s character, making liberal use of quotes by Patton and his family which afford insight into Patton’s view of himself.”
— Publishers Weekly“The best explanation of the Patton mystique we have had—or are likely to have.”
— Robert Sherrod, World War II correspondent and historian“Superb…Nobody knows Patton like Martin Blumenson, and nobody can tell his story with such verve and introspection.”
— Charles B. MacDonald, author of A Time for Trumpets" Fantastic bio. Loved it, and learned much about the celebrated General. "
— Lawrence, 10/7/2012" Interesting book on Patton's personal life. "
— Dean, 9/12/2012" Here is the definitive biography of America's most engaging, most controversial hero, General George S. Patton. Blumenson is also the author of The Patton Papers. "
— Eddy, 12/12/2011" This is an interesting biography. Blumenson's coverage is insightful, and gives the reader a window into the thinking of one of the all-time great Generals. "
— Serge, 1/18/2010" YOU GOTTA LOVE PATTON .. sorta... ha ha ha "
— Sara, 4/23/2008" Concise, informative, workmanlike bio...lacked depth and not riveting, however. "
— Patrick, 3/2/2007" A fascinating study of one of America's greatest soldiers. Quite gripping in parts; you're made to feel Patton's ambition, fears, and triumphs. "
— Frank, 1/1/2002Martin Blumenson (1918–2005), one of America’s leading military historians, served as staff historian of Patton’s Third Army. He authored many military histories, including The Patton Papers, which was hailed as “remarkable” by the New York Times.