Mercenaries: Soldiers of Fortune, from Ancient Greece to Today#s Private Military Companies : Book Review

"Mercenaries" by Michael Lee Lanning provides readers with a detailed and comprehensive examination of the world of military contracting and the role of mercenaries in contemporary warfare. With his background as a former US Army officer and military historian, Lanning offers valuable insights into the fascinating history, motivations, and operations of these modern-day soldiers of fortune. Through extensive research and interviews, he sheds light on the complexities and controversies surrounding the use of mercenaries in conflicts around the world.

The book begins by tracing the origins of mercenaries back to ancient times and discussing their evolving role throughout history. Lanning explores the major conflicts and historical events in which mercenaries have played a significant part, while also delving into the motives that drive individuals to become mercenaries. He goes further by examining the economic and political factors that contribute to the fluctuating demand for private military contractors, providing a well-rounded understanding of this often misunderstood and controversial profession.

One of the book's strengths lies in Lanning's ability to bring the experiences of mercenaries to life through firsthand accounts and detailed stories. Through interviews with former mercenaries and firsthand reports, readers gain insight into the challenges faced by these soldiers on the front lines. Lanning remains balanced, considering both the positive contributions and the potential dangers associated with employing mercenaries in warfare.

Ethical and legal considerations also take center stage in the book. Lanning explores the implications of outsourcing military tasks to private contractors and examines the accountability and transparency issues that arise when mercenaries operate outside of traditional military structures. By navigating these complex questions with skill, Lanning provides readers with a nuanced understanding of the implications of relying on mercenaries in modern warfare.

Overall, "Mercenaries" is an insightful and thought-provoking exploration of the world of military contracting. Lanning's extensive research and firsthand accounts create a well-rounded and comprehensive picture of the history, motivations, and impact of mercenaries. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of modern warfare and the role of private military contractors in shaping international conflicts.

What are readers saying?

"Mercenaries" by Michael Lee Lanning has garnered a range of opinions from readers. This book delves into the fascinating world of mercenaries and delves into their roles throughout history. Here is a summary of the diverse perspectives expressed by readers.

Some reviewers admired Lanning's meticulous research and the wealth of historical information presented in "Mercenaries." They found the book to be well-crafted and enlightening, commending Lanning's ability to offer a comprehensive overview of mercenaries throughout different eras. These readers felt that the book effectively highlighted the motivations and actions of mercenaries, resulting in an engaging and thought-provoking read.

On the flip side, some readers felt that Lanning's writing style was dry and lacked excitement. They criticized the book for its excessively academic tone, making it difficult to maintain interest. These reviewers desired more personal anecdotes and a storytelling approach to make the subject matter more captivating.

A common sentiment among reviewers was that "Mercenaries" could be overwhelming due to its dense nature. The book covers an extensive range of historical periods and geographic locations, making it challenging to keep track of the various individuals and events mentioned. Some readers found the abundance of information overwhelming and felt that it negatively impacted their reading experience.

Furthermore, a few reviewers expressed disappointment with the book's lack of analysis and depth. They believed that while Lanning provided a surface-level overview of mercenaries, there was a missed opportunity to delve deeper into the ethical and moral implications of their actions. These readers craved more critical analysis and discussion on the subject.

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