In 1799; at the end of George Washington's long life and illustrious career; the politician Henry Lee eulogized him as: “First in war; first in peace; and first in the hearts of his countrymen.†Esteemed historian Richard Brookhiser now adds to this list; “First in leadership;†examining the lessons to be learned from our first president; first commander-in-chief; and founding CEO.With wit and skill; Brookhiser expertly anatomizes true leadership with lessons from Washington's three spectacularly successful careers as an executive: general; president; and tycoon. In every area of endeavor; Washington maximized his strengths and overcame his flaws. Brookhiser shows how one man's struggles and successes two centuries ago can serve as a model—and an inspiration—for leaders today.
#684687 in Books 2015-07-07 2015-07-07Original language:EnglishPDF # 1 9.00 x 1.20 x 6.00l; 1.23 #File Name: 0451416112560 pages
Review
11 of 11 people found the following review helpful. Give Me A Full AccountBy PaulI enjoyed McGrath's book very much. It is full of details of ships; their captains; engagements and many details about the Continental navy. I will say that there are a lot of naval terms in the book; some of which I was familiar with from other readings; but several that required the help of Google to determine exactly what was being written; so if you have a limited background in this segment of history; the book will not be an easy venture. but I gave it five stars for the thoroughness of the history; and the vast amount of information.A few major points from the book: I am introduced to Gustavus Conyngham; the "Dunkirk Pirate" who caused such consternation among the British when he sailed around Ireland; causing a paralysis in shipping and explosion of rates on maritime insurance; and the personage of John Barry. The author has written a great biography of Barry and I fully intend to buy it. Also; while the British had the greatest fleet on the seas; and the Howe brothers had 260 plus ships that came to take Philadelphia; we sometimes think too much that our cause was the great underdog against such might; and to some degree it was; but as you read the book and discover the frigates that were built; you become impressed with our early navy; but more impressed in the numbers of merchant ships that were converted to privateers in order to capture enemy cargoes and take their reward in the spoils of these captures. In a great sense; it was the greed of the Americans to make money that helped facilitate an American presence on the high seas; that was often very successful and profitable. You could even come to the conclusion that the revolution was about not only freedom; but money as well. This is a good work of naval history of the time of wooden ships and the birth of America.15 of 15 people found the following review helpful. Very informative and entertaining.By F. McCarthyThis is a very informative and entertaining book. Few authors of history books combine these two attributes as well as Tim McGrath has. It is a remarkable story about a handful of dedicated heroes who risked their lives to overcame the obstacles posed by both the imposing and ruthlessly efficient British navy and the embarrassingly inept and corrupt American politicians. I was delighted to learn of the extraordinary exploits of Gustavus Conyngham; a relative unknown who deserves a better publicist and recognition as one of the greatest heroes of the Revolution.1 of 1 people found the following review helpful. An Amazing bookBy Kyle Wok well I haven't read too many books and wanted a good book to read. I personally find historical content interesting especially regarding the revolution. I like to read text book type material and this book is just splendid. it is more readable than a text book and not as boring but still delivers the same message with a ton more information. this book covers the navy from the beginning and goes into early 1800s. this book takes you back and you can see the patriotism and the battles play in your head. one of the best books I've read and full of information I never would have learned. the book focuses on John Paul Jones as well as many other captains. has maps and illustrations through the book; not many. in all a great read if history fascinates you or you want to learn about the navy and the revolution.
