FDR vs. Churchill: Allied Commanders in Conflict (1943)

Described as 'provocative' and 'stimulating to comply with' by Thomas E. Ricks from the New York Occasions Guide Evaluate, this book delves into the leadership styles of Churchill and FDR during the conflict as Allied commanders-in-chief.

In 1943, Allied forces launched successful counteroffensives against the Axis powers in North Africa and the Pacific, a pivotal moment referred to as the “Hinge of Destiny” by Winston Churchill. In his book Commander in Chief, Nigel Hamilton delves into President FDR's bold decisions during this critical period. Despite disagreements with his Joint Chiefs of Staff, Roosevelt ordered American pilots to ambush Admiral Yamamoto of the Japanese navy, and stood firm against Churchill's attempts to alter Allied D-day strategy. Roosevelt's unwavering resolve was put to the test as he prevented Churchill from diverting Allied focus to Italy and the Aegean instead of the crucial landings in Normandy. A climactic confrontation between the two leaders at Hyde Park saw FDR ensuring Churchill's cooperation in securing the Allies' path to eventual victory.

In 'Commander in Chief,' Hamilton skillfully portrays the clash between countries and two monumental personalities during a crucial moment in modern history, akin to the strategic alliance between Churchill and FDR as key Allied commanders.

“The rebuttal to the Churchill multivolume historical past . . . The conflict retains its energy to shock and shock.” — Boston Globe