Last Stands: Why Men Fight When All Is Lost

What makes last stands memorable? Is it the loyalty of the forlorn soldier digging in despite impossible odds? Last stands have been waged throughout history, usually resulting in a rout of the defeated force. Yet, the loss of the battle has not necessarily meant the end of the war. One of the primal instincts men possess is to wage war. War is an equalizer, balancing the chaos in humanity. Throughout history, empires have dominated throughout the world, from Ancient Greece to Rome to France and Britain. The overwhelming dominance of these empires has been checked with key battles where the last stand has been a factor. A line in the sand might seem hopeless but often appears noble and galvanizing. Whether fighting to stave off aggression (Thermopylae), resisting mortal enemies (Masada), or miscalculating your opponent (Little Big Horn), the waging of a penultimate battle resonates throughout time.

Last Stands provides a thought-provoking timeline of the evolution of man’s belligerent nature. Author Michael Walsh waxes nostalgic on the past where war defined manhood. The author encapsulates the past with each battle cited, illustrating the pros and cons of each side’s strategy and giving the reader grist for the mill. This is a truly enjoyable read.