Road Not Taken

Max Boot's biography of Edward Lansdale, the model for Greene's The Quiet American, explores his pioneering hearts and minds diplomacy in the Philippines and Vietnam, which was crushed by America's military bureaucracy. Boot rescues Lansdale from historical ignominy and suggests that Vietnam could have been different had we listened.

\n Format: Paperback / softback
\n Length: 800 pages
\n Publication date: 01 October 2020
\n Publisher: Head of Zeus
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In this captivating biography, Max Boot delves into the life and legacy of Edward Lansdale (1908-1987), the enigmatic figure often considered the inspiration behind Graham Greene's renowned novel, "The Quiet American." Lansdale, a renowned strategist and diplomat, played a pivotal role in shaping American foreign policy during the Cold War era. Boot's meticulous research and extensive access to previously unseen documents shed light on Lansdale's pioneering approach to "hearts and minds" diplomacy, which he first implemented in the Philippines and later in Vietnam.

Lansdale's vision was a departure from traditional military tactics, emphasizing the importance of winning the trust and support of local populations. He believed that by understanding the cultural and political nuances of each country, he could create a foundation for long-term stability and peace. However, his bold and innovative approach faced fierce opposition from America's giant military bureaucracy, dominated by elitist generals who prioritized the use of napalm bombs and conventional warfare over building relationships with the people.

Boot's narrative is rich with firsthand accounts and interviews, providing a detailed account of Lansdale's life and career. From his early days in the Philippines to his involvement in the Vietnam War, Boot explores the highs and lows of Lansdale's journey. He highlights his successes in fostering cooperation between the Philippine government and rebel forces, as well as his controversial tactics in Vietnam, including his support for the Phoenix Program, which aimed to undermine the Communist Party through covert operations.

What sets this biography apart is Boot's ability to rescue Lansdale from historical ignominy. He challenges the conventional narrative that portrays Lansdale as a failed strategist and a villainous figure responsible for the escalation of the Vietnam War. Instead, Boot presents a nuanced and balanced portrayal of Lansdale, acknowledging his flaws and mistakes but also recognizing his contributions to American foreign policy.

Boot suggests that Vietnam could have had a different outcome had Lansdale's approach been embraced and implemented more fully. He argues that by understanding the cultural and political complexities of the region, the United States could have avoided the costly and devastating war that ultimately claimed the lives of thousands of American soldiers and Vietnamese civilians.

This biography of Edward Lansdale is not only a valuable contribution to military policy and the Vietnam conflict but also a thought-provoking exploration of the complexities of international relations. Boot's writing is engaging and accessible, making it accessible to a wide range of readers, including students, scholars, and anyone interested in history and foreign policy.

In conclusion, "The Quiet American" by Max Boot is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the history and implications of the Vietnam War. Through his meticulous research and insightful analysis, Boot provides a fresh perspective on the life and legacy of Edward Lansdale, challenging the conventional narratives and offering a vision for a more peaceful and effective approach to foreign policy.

\n Weight: 988g\n
Dimension: 156 x 233 x 62 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781788542685\n \n