A radical new interpretation of British command and generalship in the First World War which debunks the 'donkey' myth - leading historians examine the practicalities of command on the Western Front and British command emerges as much more effective than many believe which helps to explain why the British Army reached a peak of military excellence in 1918. It contains new looks at familiar subjects, for example Haig and GHQ and Gough as Army Commander and has chapters on topics almost entirely neglected in the past including the role of Corps and Artillery Commanders. It is the first book to examine the 'nuts and bolts' of British command on the Western Front.
Gary Sheffield is Professor of War Studies at the University of Wolverhampton. He is President of the International Guild of Battlefield Guides and a Vice President of the Western Front Association. He has published widely on the First World War and regularly broadcasts on television and radio as well as contributing to numerous journals, magazines and newspapers. Previous books include the acclaimed Forgotten Victory and The Chief: Douglas Haig and the British Army, which was shorlisted for the presigious Duke of Westminster's Medal.