3.94
"Red Army: The Commanders, The Soldiers, The Battles, The Victory" by Ralph Peters is a comprehensive and engaging account of the Soviet Union's military history during World War II. The book provides an in-depth analysis of the Red Army's leadership, tactics, and strategies, as well as the experiences of the soldiers who fought on the front lines. Peters, a retired U.S. Army officer and military historian, draws on a wide range of sources, including memoirs, diaries, and after-action reports, to offer a richly detailed and nuanced portrait of the Red Army. He examines the political and ideological factors that shaped the army's development, as well as the military challenges it faced in its struggle against Nazi Germany. The book is divided into four parts, each focusing on a different aspect of the Red Army's experience. Part One explores the army's leadership, including the role of Stalin and the Soviet high command. Part Two examines the soldiers' experiences, from their training and indoctrination to their combat tactics and morale. Part Three looks at some of the Red Army's most significant battles, from the early defeats at the hands of the Germans to the eventual victory at Berlin. Part Four reflects on the legacy of the Red Army and its impact on the course of World War II and the subsequent Cold War. One of the book's strengths is its accessibility. Peters writes in a clear and engaging style, making complex military concepts and strategies accessible to a general audience. He also brings a keen analytical eye to the subject, offering insightful observations and thought-provoking interpretations. Overall, "Red Army" is a valuable contribution to the literature on World War II and a must-read for anyone interested in military history. It offers a rich and nuanced portrait of the Red Army, shedding light on its strengths, weaknesses, and the factors that contributed to its ultimate victory...