The Madness of Alexander the Great

by Richard A. Gabriel

2015 · Pen and Sword

Over the years, some 20,000 books and articles have been written about Alexander the Great, the vast majority hailing him as possibly the greatest general that ever lived. Richard A. Gabriel, however, argues that, while Alexander was clearly a succesful soldier-adventurer, the evidence of real greatness is simply not there. The author presents Alexander as a misfit within his own warrior society, attempting to overcompensate. Thoroughly insecure and unstable, he was given to episodes of uncontrollable rage and committed brutal atrocities that would today have him vilified as a monstrous psychopath. The author believes some of his worst excesses may have been due to what we now call Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, of which he displays many of the classic symptoms, brought on by extended exposure to violence and danger. Above all the author thinks that Alexander's military ability has been flattered by History. Alexander was tactically competent but contributed nothing truly original, while his strategy was often flawed and distorted by his obsession with personal glory. This radical reappraisal is certain to provoke debate.

The Colonization of Australia : The Wakefield Experiment in Empire Building

by Richard Charles Mills

2021 · Good Press

In "The Colonization of Australia: The Wakefield Experiment in Empire Building," Richard Charles Mills delves into the intricate socio-political landscape surrounding Australia's colonization during the 19th century. Employing a meticulous historical narrative combined with analytical rigor, Mills examines Edward Gibbon Wakefield's theories of colonization and settlement, arguing how they shaped the structural and cultural dynamics of Australian society. The book is rich in primary sources, illustrating how the 'Wakefield Experiment' was not merely a colonial venture but a radical social experiment that sought to create a new societal order amid pervasive imperialism. Through vivid storytelling and scholarly engagement, Mills situates this experiment within the broader context of British imperial ambitions and colonial policies. Richard Charles Mills is a distinguished historian whose research interests lie at the intersection of colonial studies and socio-political theory. His extensive academic background and field research in Australia provide him with a unique lens through which to analyze the complexities of colonial endeavors. Mills's intellectual journey was shaped by a commitment to understanding the lasting impacts of imperialism on indigenous peoples and the socio-economic structures of post-colonial societies, fueling his passion for writing this book. This book is an essential read for scholars and enthusiasts of colonial history, as it unravels the profound implications of the Wakefield Experiment for Australia and its ongoing debates about identity, land, and heritage. Its comprehensive analysis will enlighten readers about the nuanced relationships between colonizers and the land they sought to dominate, making it a valuable addition to the discourse on imperialism and its enduring legacies. In this enriched edition, we have carefully created added value for your reading experience: - Hand‐picked Memorable Quotes shine a spotlight on moments of literary brilliance. - Interactive footnotes clarify unusual references, historical allusions, and archaic phrases for an effortless, more informed read.

Little America, Aerial Exploration in the Antarctic

by Richard Evelyn Byrd, Laurence McKinley Gould

1930 · New York ; London : G. P. Putnam's sons

Account of United States Antarctic Expedition, leader R.E. Byrd, 1928-30.

One Law for All?

by Alan Richard Pope

2011 · Aboriginal Studies Press

Using rarely discussed documents, Pope reveals how the complexities played out and where, despite the rhetoric, Aboriginal people were treated poorly."--Pub. desc.