H. R. McMaster Bücher

Since the end of the Cold War, American foreign policy has been marked by misconceptions, inconsistencies, and poor implementation, leading to a decline in power and influence for the U.S. and the free world. This has allowed threats like nuclear proliferation and jihadist terrorism to grow. A key theme is "Strategic Narcissism," a mindset that causes leaders to craft policies based on wishful thinking rather than a realistic understanding of challenges. The text explores competition with rivals such as Russia and China, as well as hostile states like Iran and North Korea, and addresses complex battlegrounds in South Asia and the Middle East. It also highlights new arenas of competition, including space and cyberspace, along with emerging technologies. The author discusses efforts to reassess and shift policies during his tenure as National Security Advisor and outlines a pathway to enhance strategic competence against authoritarian powers and transnational terrorist organizations. He advocates for "Strategic Empathy," encouraging a perspective that considers the viewpoints of adversaries. Drawing from thirty-four years of U.S. Army service and his experience in the Trump administration, the author provides insights for navigating complex global challenges.

"The war in Vietnam was not lost in the field, nor was it lost on the front pages of the New York Times or the college campuses. It was lost in Washington, D.C." - H. R. McMaster (from the Conclusion) Dereliction Of Duty is a stunning new analysis of how and why the United States became involved in an all-out and disastrous war in Southeast Asia. Fully and convincingly researched, based on recently released transcripts and personal accounts of crucial meetings, confrontations and decisions, it is the only book that fully re-creates what happened and why. It also pinpoints the policies and decisions that got the United States into the morass and reveals who made these decisions and the motives behind them, disproving the published theories of other historians and excuses of the participants. Dereliction Of Duty covers the story in strong narrative fashion, focusing on a fascinating cast of characters: President Lyndon Johnson, Robert McNamara, General Maxwell Taylor, McGeorge Bundy and other top aides who deliberately deceived the Joint Chiefs of Staff, the U.S. Congress and the American public. Sure to generate controversy, Dereliction Of Duty is an explosive and authoritative new look at the controversy concerning the United States involvement in Vietnam.

Focusing on the complexities of U.S. foreign policy during a tumultuous presidency, the book provides an insider's view from McMaster, who served as National Security Advisor. He candidly discusses the internal conflicts and challenges faced within the Trump administration, including the influence of political advisors and the struggle to maintain focus on national security amidst chaos. McMaster compares Trump's presidency with those of Obama and Biden, emphasizing the need for competent leadership and character as the 2024 election approaches.