Conflict

Conflict by Andrew Roberts and David Petraeus is a compelling exploration of the evolution of warfare over the past eighty years. This international bestseller provides a sweeping history and incisive analysis of modern conflicts, drawing lessons from past mistakes to learn how to navigate an increasingly dangerous world.

The book begins with an in-depth analysis of the key events that have shaped contemporary warfare, from the end of World War II to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. General David Petraeus, a former CIA director who commanded US-led coalitions in Iraq and Afghanistan, collaborates with renowned historian Andrew Roberts to bring a unique combination of practical military experience and scholarly insight to the narrative. Together, they examine significant conflicts, including the Arab-Israeli wars, the Korean and Vietnam wars, the two Gulf wars, and the Balkan wars in the former Yugoslavia.

Petraeus and Roberts delve into the challenges faced by statesmen and military leaders, highlighting how critical mistakes have been repeated throughout history. They explore the difficulties of adapting to new weapon systems, evolving strategies and tactics, and the continuous threat posed by guerilla warfare in regions such as Africa and South America.

Fully updated to include new material on the Israel/Gaza conflict, Conflict offers readers sharp insights and a wealth of knowledge that is both timely and relevant. The book culminates with an analysis of the tragic consequences of Vladimir Putin's invasion of Ukraine, providing yet another case study in the failure to learn from history. This exploration not only assesses the current state of warfare but also anticipates the nature of future conflicts.

Richly detailed and elegantly written, Conflict is an essential primer on modern warfare. It combines the wisdom of experience with thorough research, making it a critical read for anyone interested in understanding the dynamics of war and how they impact our world today and in the future.

Praise for Conflict highlights its significant impact: "A rigorous and thoughtful study of what has happened on battlefields over the past eight decades" (The Times), and "A hugely important book...elegantly written and persuasively argued" (Daily Telegraph).