In 1934, eleven-year-old Shimon Peres emigrated from Poland to Israel, leaving behind family who would later perish in the Holocaust. Few could have predicted that this young boy would become a towering figure of the twentieth century. Peres served as prime minister, president, and foreign minister, playing a pivotal role in establishing the Israeli Defense Forces and the defense industry, which provided Israel with a strong deterrent. He was instrumental in launching the country's nuclear energy program and fostering the high-tech Start-Up Nation revolution. His refusal to conform to traditional political norms helped save the Israeli economy and led to daring military operations, including the legendary Operation Entebbe. However, it was his remarkable shift from hawk to dove, marked by a steadfast commitment to peace, that made him one of the world's most recognized and respected statesmen. In his final work, Peres reflects on key moments in Israeli history as a decision-maker and eyewitness. With candidness, he examines what constitutes great leadership, the art of making difficult choices amid uncertainty, and the importance of imagination and innovation. His insights not only chart a hopeful path for Israel but also offer profound wisdom for future leaders in politics, business, and the pursuit of a safer, more just world.
