Book Review: American Warlords

By Jim Gerson

Great historical narrative is when you know how the story ends, but youre still totally invested and want to continue reading. Such is American Warlords, by Mariettas own Jonathan Jordan. This is a logical sequel to Jordans successful Brothers, Rivals, Victors, in which he introduces the reader to the military leadership in the European theatre of World War II. In American Warlords, Jordan focuses on FDRs high-command, inner circle and the strategic decisions and personalities that influenced world events.

Roosevelt was aware of Americas eventual entry into the European war, but faced a country and Congress that wanted no U.S. involvement. You know I am a juggler, and I never let my right hand know what my left hand does. This was FDRs approach to his communications to the country, as well as his leadership team in Washington. This juggling started with his campaign for a third term as he stated, I have said this before, but I shall say it again and again and again; your boys are not going to be sent into any foreign wars. He knew this was a promise he couldnt keep.

Once elected and faced with an isolationist and cost-conscious Congress, his focus shifted to providing war materials to England. His argument was:  Suppose my neighbors home catches fire, and I have a length of garden hose four hundred to five hundred feet away. If he can take my garden hose and connect it up with his hydrant, I may help him to put out his fire...I dont say to him before that operation, Neighbor, my garden hose cost me $15; you have to pay me $15 for it.... I dont want $15 I want my garden hose back after the fire is over."

American Warlords is narrative history at its best, with a linear storyline that will help the reader understand the relationships, strategies, and most importantly, FDR and the leadership team who won WWII.