In the end, he had to use his sword and go straight up to the third heaven. How could the will of a lifetime compare to that of a great Dao? Close]

Emory Upton (1839–1881) is widely recognized as one of America’s most influential military thinkers. His works—The Armies of Asia and Europe and The Military Policy of the United States—fueled the army’s intellectual ferment in the late nineteenth century and guided Secretary of War Elihu Root’s reforms in the early 1900s. Yet as David J. Fitzpatrick contends, Upton is also widely misunderstood as an antidemocratic militaristic zealot whose ideas were “too Prussian” for America. In this first full biography in nearly half a century, Fitzpatrick, the leading authority on Upton, radically revises our view of this important figure in American military thought. A devout Methodist farm boy from upstate New York, Upton attended the United States Military Academy at West Point and served in the Civil War. His use of a mass infantry attack to break the Confederate lines at Spotsylvania Courthouse in 1864 identified him as a rising figure in the U.S. Army. Upton’s subsequent work on military organizations in Asia and Europe, commissioned by Commanding General William T. Sherman, influenced the army’s turn toward a European, largely German ideal of soldiering as a profession. Yet it was this same text, along with Upton’s Military Policy of the United States, that also propelled the misinterpretations of Upton—first by some contemporaries, and more recently by noted historians Stephen Ambrose and Russell Weigley. By showing Upton’s dedication to the ideal of the citizen-soldier and placing him within the context of contemporary military, political, and intellectual discourse, Fitzpatrick shows how Upton’s ideas clearly grew out of an American military-political tradition. Emory Upton: Misunderstood Reformer clarifies Upton’s influence on the army by offering a new and necessary understanding of the military’s intellectual direction at a critical juncture in American history.

Samurai Tales is about the legendary men from the samurai class who fought for the helm of power in 19th century Japan. These are stories of courage, honor, fidelity, disgrace, fate, and destiny set in the bloody time of political change and social upheaval in the final years of the Shogun. The final years of the samurai were an age of unprecedented turmoil and bloodletting in Japan. They heralded the end of nearly three centuries of rule under the Tokugawa Shogun. The rule of law was deteriorating, assassination and murder were rampant, and inner-fighting among the warrior class embroiled the nation. After the United States forced an end of over two hundred years of Japanese isolation, two contrasting philosophies were embraced by the samurai. On one side were those who would overthrow the shogun and restore the Emperor to power. Opposing the revolutionaries were the allies of the Tokugawa Bakufu, headed by the shogun. While the shogun's men clashed violently with the revolutionaries, as samurai they shared with each other an allegiance to an unwritten code of honor which governed the ways they lived and died. Theirs was a stoic system of morals which condoned suicide, vengeance and, in some cases, cold-blooded murder. Samurai Tales is, to quote author Romulus Hillsborough, "accurate portrayals of the heart and soul of the samurai, the social and political systems of whom have, like the Japanese sword, become relics of a distant age, but the likes of whose nobility shall never again be seen in this world." In recounting what he terms "the great epic which was the dawn of modern Japan," Hillsborough delves deeply into the psyche of the men of the samurai class. This book would serve well on the bookshelves of martial artists, those interested in samurai culture, or those interested in Japanese history.

The King of Limits, Han Chen, was reincarnated in the body of the trash from the Han family. He relied on his Heavenly Treasures, the Heaven Swallowing Stone, to break through the imprisonment of the Nine Yin and Nine Yang bodies. From a tiny ant to a mighty being that could cover the sky with one hand, Han Chen had exterminated the devil and destroyed the devil, standing on the feet of thousands of sects. He was the supreme ruler of all worlds!

The young eagle wanted to expand Ling Yunzhi, and he had refined the Thousand Hammer Heart Tempering Stone. To shake the heavens and the earth, what need was there to be afraid of the cold and blazing sun?! Thousand year Sword Spirit, reincarnated. With the help of the dragon vein, as well as the cultivation of a heaven rank cultivation technique, let's see how he kills the heavens with his divine sword in this life!

Embark on a riveting journey through the tumultuous history of Sudan with "Fire and Sword in the Sudan" by Rudolf Carl Freiherr von Slatin, a gripping firsthand account of one man's harrowing experiences in the midst of war, rebellion, and colonial conquest. Created by von Slatin, this powerful narrative offers a compelling glimpse into the events that shaped Sudan's destiny and the resilience of its people in the face of adversity. In this remarkable memoir, von Slatin recounts his remarkable odyssey from a young Austrian officer to a captive of the Mahdi's forces, detailing his years of captivity, his daring escape, and his subsequent efforts to aid the British in their campaign to reconquer Sudan. From the bloody battles of Omdurman to the treacherous deserts of the Sahara, von Slatin's narrative is a testament to the indomitable human spirit and the enduring quest for freedom and justice. With vivid descriptions and vivid imagery, "Fire and Sword in the Sudan" transports readers to a time of great upheaval and conflict, where every moment is fraught with danger and uncertainty. Through von Slatin's eyes, readers witness the horrors of war, the courage of ordinary people, and the clash of civilizations that defined Sudan's struggle for independence. The overall tone and mood of "Fire and Sword in the Sudan" are one of urgency, tension, and defiance, as von Slatin chronicles the epic battles and personal sacrifices that shaped Sudan's destiny. His vivid prose and evocative storytelling draw readers into the heart of the action, immersing them in a world of danger and intrigue. Widely acclaimed for its historical significance and literary merit, "Fire and Sword in the Sudan" has earned a place as one of the definitive accounts of Sudan's struggle for independence. Von Slatin's firsthand perspective and intimate knowledge of the events make this memoir an invaluable resource for historians, scholars, and anyone interested in the history of the region. Designed to appeal to readers with a passion for history and adventure, "Fire and Sword in the Sudan" offers a gripping narrative that captivates from beginning to end. Whether you're a history buff, an armchair adventurer, or simply someone looking for a compelling story, von Slatin's memoir promises an unforgettable journey through the annals of Sudanese history. In comparison to other accounts of Sudan's colonial history, "Fire and Sword in the Sudan" stands out for its firsthand perspective and its intimate portrayal of the events that shaped the region's destiny. Von Slatin's unique vantage point as a captive turned freedom fighter offers readers a nuanced understanding of the complexities of colonialism and resistance. On a personal level, "Fire and Sword in the Sudan" resonates with readers by highlighting the power of the human spirit to endure, adapt, and triumph in the face of overwhelming odds. Von Slatin's courage and resilience serve as an inspiration to all who read his story, reminding us of the enduring quest for freedom and justice that unites us all. Don't miss your chance to experience the epic saga of "Fire and Sword in the Sudan" by Rudolf Carl Freiherr von Slatin. Join von Slatin on a journey through the heart of Africa, and discover the untold stories of courage, sacrifice, and survival that define Sudan's tumultuous history.

An examination of the political and diplomatic role of American nuclear weapons in conflicts with a non-nuclear China in the Korean War and the Taiwan Strait crises of 1954-1955 and 1958, this study analyzes the American tendency to become involved in confrontations with far weaker powers over issues of very little strategic significance to the United States. Washington threatens these adversaries with the use of incommensurate levels of force, then ultimately backs down in the face of international and domestic opposition to ill-considered plans to use force. Unlike works on nuclear history that have either focused on superpower nuclear conflicts and ignored cases of American nuclear diplomacy toward non-nuclear adversaries, or those that have focused merely on the outcomes of nuclear threats against non-nuclear powers, this book considers in depth American nuclear diplomacy toward China during the whole period of Sino-American military confrontations. Soman offers new insights on Truman's decision to enter the Korean War, the extent of nuclear diplomacy during the war, and the way in which the war ended. He argues that the goal of American nuclear diplomacy in the spring of 1955 was to provoke a war with China, rather than to deter a Chinese attack on Taiwan. Finally, he lays out, for the first time in print, the elaborate diplomacy that Secretary of State John Foster Dulles initiated to defuse the 1958 crisis, involving a major shift in American policy that still remains hidden from the public as well as historians. Highlighting the central role of nuclear diplomacy in these crises, this book draws conclusions on the efficacy of such diplomacy, the impact of these crises on the development of policies of massive retaliation and limited war, the consequences of Dulles's brinkmanship, and the revival of nuclear diplomacy by the Clinton administration in conflicts with non-nuclear adversaries.

The greatest order of chivalry in the history of Krynn. After a knight has achieved the Order of the Crown, he must then begin his training in the virtues of courage and heroism in order to achieve the Order of the Sword. This is the second tale of Sir Pirvan the Wayward, whose reluctant and inauspicious beginnings bore few clues to his potential as a Knight of the Sword or as a Knight of the Crown, nor as a mentor for another similarly dubious prospect for Krynn's greatest order of chivalry. Roland J. Green is the author of the Starcruiser Shenandoah and Wandor series and numerous Conan novels, and is coauthor (with Jerr Pournelle) of the Jannisaries series. The Warriors series details the exploits of the heroes and villains of the War of the Lance.

The Sword of the King by Ronald MacDonald: Embark on an epic medieval journey as the fate of kingdoms rests on the legendary sword of the king. Follow the valiant hero's quest as he faces treacherous foes, unravels ancient mysteries, and battles for honor and justice. This thrilling tale of courage and adventure will transport readers to a world of chivalry, magic, and destiny. Key Aspects of the Book "The Sword of the King": Medieval Adventure: Immerse yourself in a richly crafted medieval setting, complete with knights, castles, and quests of noble valor. Legendary Artifact: The sword of the king holds immense power and significance, becoming the centerpiece of the hero's journey and the fate of the realm. Themes of Honor and Destiny: The story explores timeless themes of honor, bravery, and the ultimate destiny that lies within the hero's grasp. Ronald MacDonald is an acclaimed author known for his masterful storytelling and ability to transport readers to enchanting worlds. With a passion for history and mythology, MacDonald's works often draw inspiration from ancient tales and legends, infusing them with his unique imagination. "The Sword of the King" showcases his skill in crafting an unforgettable adventure that captivates readers of all ages. MacDonald's literary contributions have earned him a place among the esteemed authors of fantasy and adventure. His narratives continue to inspire generations, igniting the imagination and sparking the thirst for tales of bravery and heroism.