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Our Man

608 pages, 2019

biographies & memoirs

biographies & memoirs

997 books
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history

999 books
economics & politics

economics & politics

987 books
Takeaways
Description
Richard Holbrooke has always been a man of grand ambitions and bold ideas. In this sweeping biography, Pulitzer Prize-winner David Halberstam tells the story of his subject's rise to national prominence from his early days in Vietnam as a young Foreign Service officer to his unexpected appointment as special envoy to the Balkans, where he implemented the peace settlements that ended the bloody conflicts that tore apart Europe for forty years. A complex, contradictory figure, Holbrooke was known for his impeccable sense of style and even more for his penchant for putting personal ambition before diplomatic discipline. Whether it was arguing for the importance of public relations in American foreign policy or proclaiming himself a War Power president--a position he never actually attained--Holbrooke believed in America's ability to lead the world with force and diplomacy. And he saw war as an essential tool in maintaining American dominance. While shedding light on this larger-than-life personality and his unique place in American society and politics, Halberstam also offers an intimate portrait of a commonplace man prey to human frailties like impatience, arrogance, and self-delusion.
Understanding Richard Holbrooke

In 'Our Man', George Packer explores the life of Richard Holbrooke, a complex and influential figure in American diplomacy. You'll get to see the man behind the public persona, his ambitions, his flaws, and his contributions to international relations.

Insight into American Diplomacy

Packer's book gives us a look into the world of American diplomacy through the lens of Holbrooke's career. It's a chance to understand the inner workings of international politics, the challenges diplomats face, and the impact of their decisions.

The Power of Personality

One of the key takeaways from 'Our Man' is the role of personality in politics. Holbrooke's larger-than-life character played a significant part in his career. Packer shows us how individual traits can shape history, for better or worse.

Lessons from History

Packer uses Holbrooke's involvement in the Vietnam War and the Bosnian War to highlight the lessons history can teach us. By researching these events, we can learn about the consequences of political decisions and the importance of diplomacy in conflict resolution.

The Human Side of Politics

Finally, 'Our Man' reminds us that behind every political decision, there's a human story. Packer invites us to see the personal struggles, ambitions, and emotions that drive people in power. It's a reminder that politics is not just about policies, but also about people.

Quotes 4

Our Man is a vivid, engrossing biography that is a masterwork of clarity and balance.

David RemnickDavid Remnick - Editor, Journalist, Writer

George Packer's Our Man is a riveting read, filled with fascinating insights into a man who significantly shaped American foreign policy.

Madeleine AlbrightMadeleine Albright - Politician, Diplomat, Author

Our Man is a brilliant, highly readable, and deeply insightful book.

Walter IsaacsonWalter Isaacson - Biographer, Journalist, Historian

Our Man is a masterful work, a poignant and gripping exploration of the complexities of American diplomacy.

Jon MeachamJon Meacham - Writer, Journalist, Editor
David RemnickMadeleine AlbrightWalter IsaacsonJon Meacham

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