Personality and Power

Builders and Destroyers of Modern Europe

By: Ian Kershaw

Narrated by: Matt Bates

One of New York Magazine's Most Anticipated Books of the Fall

How far can a single leader alter the course of history?

From one of the leading historians of twentieth-century Europe and the author of the definitive biography of Hitler, Personality and Power is a masterful reckoning with how character conspired with opportunity to create the modern age’s uniquely devastating despots—and how and why other countries found better paths. The modern era saw the emergence of individuals who had command over a terrifying array of instruments of control, persuasion and death. Whole societies were reshaped and wars were fought, often with a merciless contempt for the most basic norms. At the summit of these societies were leaders whose personalities somehow enabled them to do whatever they wished, regardless of the consequences for others.

Ian Kershaw’s new book is a compelling, lucid and challenging attempt to understand these rulers, whether those operating on the widest stage (Lenin, Stalin, Hitler, Mussolini) or with a more national impact (Tito, Franco). What was it about these leaders, and the times in which they lived, that allowed them such untrammelled and murderous power? And what brought that era to an end? In a contrasting group of profiles—from Churchill to de Gaulle, Adenauer to Gorbachev and Thatcher to Kohl)—Kershaw uses his exceptional skills as an iconic historian to explore how strikingly different figures wielded power.

©2022 Ian Kershaw (P)2022 Penguin Audio

Critic reviews

"[A] Deft and thoughtful work of synthesis." —Wall Street Journal

“Through sharp profiles of key figures, Kershaw provides an important framework for understanding power and how it is used.” —Kirkus

“Striking an expert balance between personality profiles and political and social analysis, this is a rewarding study of a turbulent century in European history.” — Publishers Weekly

A few solid conclusions

Mostly biographical, which was interesting but not what was promised by the author. The conclusion had the most analysis in the book.

European history

A very well put together book. I enjoyed the narrator as he explained the intricacy of this important events.

introduction

This book has its merit as an introduction text/ audiobook for those not well versed in contemporary European history, for those with some background it will likely offer not so much new, maybe some raunchy details. the reading was ok but not exception.

Great book, but needs work on human groups

Great book with lots of new info, but author does not understand that dictators don't act alone. In fact, the term "dictator" is a misnomer. People help these leaders do what they do.