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This Kind of War summary
T. R. Fehrenbach
Brief summary
This Kind of War by T. R. Fehrenbach is a historical account of the Korean War. It provides a detailed analysis of the conflict, its political context, and the challenges faced by soldiers on the front lines.
Table of Contents
This Kind of War
Summary of key ideas
Understanding the Korean War
In This Kind of War, T. R. Fehrenbach offers a comprehensive and compelling account of the Korean War. He begins by setting the stage, providing a detailed understanding of the geopolitical landscape that led to the war. He explains how Korea was divided after World War II, with the Soviet Union occupying the north and the United States the south. The author also explores the ideological underpinnings of the conflict, highlighting the contrasting political systems of the two Koreas and the global struggle between communism and democracy.
Fehrenbach delves into the initial stages of the war, describing the surprise attack launched by North Korea in June 1950 and the rapid advance of their forces. He paints a vivid picture of the chaotic early days of the war, when the ill-prepared and poorly-equipped U.S. and South Korean forces were pushed back to the Pusan Perimeter, their last stronghold in the south-eastern corner of the Korean Peninsula.
The Battle of the Pusan Perimeter
The Battle of the Pusan Perimeter forms a central part of the narrative. Fehrenbach meticulously details the desperate defense of the Pusan Perimeter, where U.S. and South Korean forces, with support from other United Nations countries, held off the North Korean advance. He highlights the valor and resilience of the soldiers who fought under harsh conditions, often outnumbered and outgunned, yet managed to repel repeated enemy attacks.
As the battle rages on, the author also provides insights into the strategic thinking and decision-making processes of both the United Nations and North Korean leadership. He examines the shifting alliances and motivations of the various countries involved in the conflict, shedding light on the complex international dynamics at play.
The Turning Point: Inchon and the Chosin Reservoir
Fehrenbach then describes the daring amphibious assault at Inchon, led by General Douglas MacArthur, which resulted in a decisive turning point in the war. This maneuver, combined with the successful breakout from the Pusan Perimeter, led to a dramatic reversal of fortunes, with U.N. forces pushing deep into North Korean territory and nearly reaching the Chinese border.
However, the euphoria of this success was short-lived. The Chinese, fearing a U.S. presence at their border, entered the war in late 1950, launching a massive counter-offensive that caught the U.N. forces by surprise. Fehrenbach vividly recounts the brutal Battle of the Chosin Reservoir where U.S. Marines and other U.N. troops faced overwhelming Chinese numbers and harsh winter conditions, yet managed to execute a daring fighting withdrawal to safety.
The Stalemate and Aftermath
As the war entered a bloody and protracted stalemate, Fehrenbach explores the grueling realities of trench warfare, where both sides engaged in a war of attrition with little territorial gain. He emphasizes the human cost of the conflict, detailing the suffering of soldiers on both sides and the civilian population caught in the crossfire.
The book concludes with the armistice negotiations and the signing of the Korean Armistice Agreement in 1953, which brought an end to the active fighting but left the Korean Peninsula divided along the 38th parallel, a situation that persists to this day. Fehrenbach reflects on the war's legacy, asserting that the Korean War was not a forgotten war but a war that was never truly understood or properly concluded.
In sum, This Kind of War is a powerful and thought-provoking exploration of the Korean War. Fehrenbach's meticulous research, vivid storytelling, and insightful analysis offer a valuable perspective on this often overlooked yet pivotal moment in modern history.
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What is This Kind of War about?
This Kind of War by T. R. Fehrenbach is a gripping account of the Korean War, offering a detailed analysis of the political and military strategies that shaped the conflict. Fehrenbach provides a comprehensive examination of the war, delving into the complexities of the international and domestic factors that influenced its outcome. Through firsthand interviews and extensive research, the book sheds light on the often overlooked and misunderstood war that changed the course of history.
This Kind of War Review
This Kind of War (1994) offers a comprehensive account of the Korean War, highlighting its complexities and impact on history. Here's why this book is a valuable read:
- The book provides detailed insights into the political and strategic aspects of the conflict, offering a thorough understanding of the war's significance.
- With a focus on personal experiences and frontline stories, it humanizes the war, making it emotionally compelling and revealing the toll on individuals.
- Through analytical narratives and historical context, the book captures the intricacies of military operations, keeping readers engaged and informed without being dull.
Who should read This Kind of War?
History enthusiasts who want to gain a deeper understanding of the Korean War
Students and scholars studying military history or international relations
Those interested in the challenges and complexities of modern warfare
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This Kind of War FAQs
What is the main message of This Kind of War?
The main message of This Kind of War is the examination of the Korean War's impact on the United States military strategy.
How long does it take to read This Kind of War?
Reading This Kind of War takes a few hours. Blinkist summary can be read in less than 15 minutes.
Is This Kind of War a good book? Is it worth reading?
This Kind of War is worth reading for its insightful analysis and historical significance.
Who is the author of This Kind of War?
T. R. Fehrenbach is the author of This Kind of War.
What to read after This Kind of War?
If you're wondering what to read next after This Kind of War, here are some recommendations we suggest:
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