Author

Andrew Roberts

16 key ideas across 2 books, each explained in our own words.

Churchill: Walking with Destiny

IDEA 1
Churchill felt destined for greatness
Roberts argues that from a young age Winston Churchill believed he was destined to save Britain in a time of great danger. This sense of destiny drove his ambition and gave him confidence during dark moments.
IDEA 2
Adventure made him famous
Roberts describes Churchill's early life as a soldier and war correspondent, including his escape from a prison camp in South Africa. These adventures made him famous. Roberts presents these early adventures as the start of a public name that helped his later career.
IDEA 3
Gallipoli was a disaster
Roberts describes the failed Gallipoli campaign in the First World War, which Churchill had championed. The defeat damaged his reputation. Roberts shows that a failure of this kind could have ended his career for good.

IDEA 1
A Corsican rose to rule France
Roberts tells how Napoleon Bonaparte, born on the island of Corsica, rose through the French army during the Revolution. His talent, energy and ambition carried him from obscurity to supreme power within a few years.
IDEA 2
Early victories made him famous
Roberts describes Napoleon's brilliant campaign in Italy, where he defeated larger armies. These victories made him a hero in France. Roberts shows that early success gave him the confidence and the following he needed to seek higher office.
IDEA 3
He seized power
Napoleon took control of France in a coup in 1799 and later crowned himself emperor in 1804. He promised order after years of chaos. Roberts shows that many people accepted his rule because they were tired of instability.

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