Robert L. O'Connell Libros

NATIONAL BESTSELLER For millennia, Carthage’s triumph over Rome at Cannae in 216 B.C. has inspired reverence and awe. No general since has matched Hannibal’s most unexpected, innovative, and brutal military victory. Now Robert L. O’Connell, one of the most admired names in military history, tells the whole story of Cannae for the first time, giving us a stirring account of this apocalyptic battle, its causes and consequences. O’Connell brilliantly conveys how Rome amassed a giant army to punish Carthage’s masterful commander, how Hannibal outwitted enemies that outnumbered him, and how this disastrous pivot point in Rome’s history ultimately led to the republic’s resurgence and the creation of its empire. Piecing together decayed shreds of ancient reportage, the author paints powerful portraits of the leading players, from Hannibal—resolutely sane and uncannily strategic—to Scipio Africanus, the self-promoting Roman military tribune. Finally, O’Connell reveals how Cannae’s legend has inspired and haunted military leaders ever since, and the lessons it teaches for our own wars.

NATIONAL BESTSELLER William Tecumseh Sherman was not just one of America’s greatest generals; he was a complex figure whose influence shaped the nation. In this bold, revisionist portrait, Robert L. O’Connell reveals the multifaceted nature of Sherman, from his early exploits in Florida to his pivotal role in the Civil War and his contributions to the transcontinental railroad. O’Connell describes Sherman as the “human embodiment of Manifest Destiny,” showcasing his military genius, strategic prowess, and logistical mastery. The narrative also explores Sherman’s public persona as “Uncle Billy,” a charismatic hero beloved by his troops and the media. However, it delves deeper into his private life, revealing a man whose indulgences in women, parties, and theater complicated his turbulent marriage. This masterful character study, infused with the author’s wit, offers myriad insights into Sherman’s life, making it an essential biography for understanding his legacy. Praised for its depth and clarity, this examination captures the complexities of Sherman’s psyche and his formidable place in American history. It stands as a definitive work on a man whose impact resonates through the ages.