Whether in Sicily in 415-13 BC or the Persian Gulf today, these 5 factors are still the top determinants of success or failure in war: 1. Understanding geography 2. Understanding logistics 3. Having a clearly defined & realistically achievable goal 4. Having a well-thought-out strategy to attain that goal with the resources available 5. Prudently adapting that strategy as necessary due to changing circumstances I’m currently hard at work on Pt 3 of “The Mad Dream of Conquest,” my Dangerous History series on the Athenian expedition to Sicily during the Peloponnesian War - stay tuned!

In honor of the 12th anniversary of the Dangerous History Podcast, I published an episode in which I reminisce a little about the journey, and share & analyze 12 of my favorite quotes from HL Mencken, including the quote that inspired the name of the DHP. Check it out! https://fountain.fm/episode/WPj45Z7dqaSsjZfAILsj