"In these fascinating case studies, the author shows how arrogance, in its many guises, has been a major factor in military defeat. We read of examples of over-confidence stemming from a superiority of numbers or weaponry, from having the best ground or of being able to boast a winning record. We also encounter examples where a sense of destiny or a perceived superiority over a direct rival has heralded an ignominious defeat. It is seen that less tangible failings such as class or racial superiority have engendered a false sense of security, or regimental elitism has encouraged an unjustifiable belief in victory." "The result is an intriguing new perspective on two centuries of warfare and more than twenty commanders and national leaders. The general or military historian will find the approach an interesting, fresh angle, the aspiring serving officer will identify pitfalls he must avoid, and the civilian student of warfare will be fascinated to see how character faults have affected the course of history."--Jacket.

1755: the Monongahela -- 1777: Saratoga -- 1790-91: North West War -- 1814: New Orleans -- 1861: Bull Run -- 1876: Little Big Horn -- 1879: Isandhlwana -- 1896: Adowa -- 1939: Poland -- 1939-40: Finland -- 1940: Greece -- 1941: Pearl Harbor -- 1941-42: Malaya and Singapore -- 1943: Kasserine -- 1950: Osan-Taejon -- 1950: Chongchon-Changjin -- 1954: Dien Bien Phu -- 1991: Kuwait.