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#21

Ancient and Medieval History / James Clark lecture on British...

Last post by Imperial Dave - Mar 08, 2026, 06:31 AM

https://www.exmouthjournal.co.uk/news/25915233.tv-historian-public-lecture-topsham-medieval-england/

Maybe of interest to some?

#22

Ancient and Medieval History / Re: The 7 greatest generals

Last post by Imperial Dave - Mar 08, 2026, 06:25 AM

Boom tish...

#23

Ancient and Medieval History / Re: The 7 greatest generals

Last post by Keraunos - Mar 07, 2026, 11:05 PM

Although some would have his approach to fighting Hastings as genius

Others would say he rode his luck.

While others might say he rode his horse 

#24

Ancient and Medieval History / Re: The 7 greatest generals

Last post by Erpingham - Mar 07, 2026, 07:26 PM

Although some would have his approach to fighting Hastings as genius

Others would say he rode his luck.

#25

Ancient and Medieval History / Re: The 7 greatest generals

Last post by Imperial Dave - Mar 07, 2026, 07:24 PM

Although some would have his approach to fighting Hastings as genius

#26

Ancient and Medieval History / Re: The 7 greatest generals

Last post by Erpingham - Mar 07, 2026, 07:21 PM

To return to the author's definition

"Since victory on the battlefield does not guarantee long-term success, the true mark of greatness for a general is to achieve success in wars and campaigns that make a lasting impact on the history of the world."

IMO, making lasting impacts is statecraft not generalship. For example, using his definition, you'd have to rate William the Conquerer as a great general, as his kingship was transformational and the effects remain with us today. Yet, in truth, his battlefield performance was no better than OK i.e. he won.

#27

Ancient and Medieval History / Re: The 7 greatest generals

Last post by Imperial Dave - Mar 07, 2026, 07:17 PM

Or my favourite Eumenes...although he wasn't that great but I still find him fascinating

#28

Ancient and Medieval History / Re: The 7 greatest generals

Last post by Ian61 - Mar 07, 2026, 06:48 PM

I'm a bit wary of generalship being a combination of military prowess and statesmanship. Especially as he doesn't apply it consistently.

Indeed rules out Phyrrus who was clearly a talented battlefield general but couldn't carry that through.

#29

Ancient and Medieval History / Re: The 7 greatest generals

Last post by gavindbm - Mar 07, 2026, 01:28 PM

One features of generalship that I feel is often overlooked is how well you grow your subordinates into being good generals.  This could be one of Caesar's failings..

That might bump Alexander towards the very top

I was tempted to mention Alexander the Great but was too reticent.

#30

Ancient and Medieval History / Re: The 7 greatest generals

Last post by Erpingham - Mar 07, 2026, 12:36 PM

I'm a bit wary of generalship being a combination of military prowess and statesmanship. Especially as he doesn't apply it consistently.