Douglas Porch Libri

The book explores the complex relationship between the French army and the Third Republic, highlighting the challenges of integrating a historically conservative military into a democratic framework. It argues that the officer corps' social origins and political attitudes hindered cooperation, leading to significant consequences during World War I. Through a detailed analysis of the Dreyfus affair and its effects on military strategy and armament debates, the author provides fresh insights into the army's role in French politics from 1871 to 1914, including the development of the colonial army.

The book presents a compelling narrative centered on the Mediterranean theater during World War II, highlighting its crucial role in the Allied victory in Europe. It features vivid portraits of key figures such as Churchill, Montgomery, FDR, Rommel, and Mussolini, offering original insights into their strategies and interactions. Through well-argued analysis, the author emphasizes the significance of this often-overlooked front in shaping the course of the war.

The book explores the evolution of France's intelligence services from the ancient regime and Napoleon to modern times, highlighting their unique operations in diplomatic, military, and industrial espionage. It delves into the complexities of France's political culture and its self-perception as a global power, revealing the often bizarre tactics employed by its spy networks. This research provides a dramatic and untold narrative of how these secret services adapted and transformed throughout history.

The Conquest of Morocco tells the story of France's last great colonial adventure. At the turn of the twentieth century, Morocco was a nation yet to emerge from the Middle Ages, ruled by local warlords and riven by religious fanaticism. But in the mad scramble for African colonies, Morocco had one great attraction for the it was available. In 1903, France undertook to conquer the exotic and backward country. By the time World War I broke out the conquest was virtually complete. Based on extensive original research, The Conquest of Morocco is a splendid work of popular history.

Looks beyond the myths that surround the French Foreign Legion, and analyzes its often outstanding performance throughout history, as well as looking at its special problems in recruitment, discipline and morale. Douglas Porch also describes the Legion's battles all over the world.

The book presents a provocative examination of counterinsurgency, questioning its effectiveness as a military strategy. It delves into historical case studies and critiques the conventional wisdom surrounding counterinsurgency operations, arguing that they often fail to achieve their intended outcomes. Through rigorous analysis, the author seeks to reshape the understanding of warfare and the implications of these strategies on both military and civilian populations.

The narrative explores the roots of the left-wing Portuguese army rebellion of 1974, which led to the fall of a long-standing authoritarian regime. It delves into the historical context of military independence, the deteriorating relationship between the armed forces and the government, and the impact of unpopular colonial wars that fueled discontent. Through this lens, the book provides a detailed account of the political dynamics that culminated in a significant turning point for Portugal.

This book presents a provocative examination of counterinsurgency, questioning its effectiveness as a military strategy. It delves into historical examples and critiques the conventional wisdom surrounding this approach to warfare, offering a fresh perspective on its implications and outcomes. The author aims to spark debate about the validity of counterinsurgency tactics and their impact on both military operations and broader societal contexts.

Focusing on the Revolutionary movement within the French army, this analysis explores the transformation from a revolutionary force in 1815 to a counter-revolutionary army by June 1848. It delves into the challenges and mechanics that shaped this evolution during and after the French Revolution, providing a detailed examination of the political and military shifts that influenced the army's role in society.

A definitive new account of France in World War II exploring the country's collapse in 1940, the rise of Charles de Gaulle's Free French, the occupation, and culminating in the November 1942 invasion of French North Africa. In Defeat and Division, Douglas Porch launches an unparalleled history of France's wartime ordeal.