American Caesar by William Manchester is the biography of General Douglas MacArthur. MacArthur served in World War I and was in command of the Pacific in World War II. He was one of the most decorated men in United States history and was either loved or hated by the people. Few people were neutral on the subject of MacArthur. Most people considered him to be a military genius. His record was not spotless. There was the attack at Pearl Harbor and the lapses of the following hours that allowed the airfleet in the Philippines to be destroyed. However, he still was instrumental in masterminding the United States victory in the Pacific.

MacArthur came from a military family. His father served in the Union Army in the Civil War and then in the United States Army. Douglas and his brother, Arthur, grew up at various posts on the Western frontier. The military was a way of life for both of them. Arthur attended the United States Naval Academy at Annapolis and became a naval officer. He died of appendicitis on December, 1922. Douglas attends the United States Military Academy at West Point and went on to become one of the most brilliant commanders in United States history.

Douglas first went to the Philippines after his graduation from West Point. He was a member of the Corps of Engineers and was there when his parents were there. It was the beginning of his relationship with the people of the Philippines who came to revere and trust him. Manchester tells of MacArthur's career from beginning to end. Serving in France in World War I, MacArthur was known for his unconventional behavior. He refused to wear a steel helmet or wear a gas mask and suffered injuries as a result. This is the kind of behavior he continued to exhibit in World War II and Korea. Instead of spending his time at the command headquarters during invasions, he would join his men.

MacArthur helped establish democratic governments in both the Philippines and Japan. When the Korean conflict began, MacArthur was in command. He was involved in a policy dispute with the Joint Chiefs of Staff and this led to his recall from Korea and the end of his military career. Manchester does his usual thorough job in American Caesar. The book is lengthy and very detailed, but very interesting reading. This reader will find the times spent reading the book to be worthwhile.