American History Hit America's Greatest General
Jan 19, 2026
Major Jonathan Bratten, a National Guard officer and military historian, joins to explore America's greatest generals. They dive into what makes a general great, discussing traits like charisma and care for troops. The conversation highlights Eisenhower's logistical genius during D-Day and the indispensable role of Nathaniel Greene in the Revolutionary War. They also debate George Washington's strategic evolution and Ulysses S. Grant's relentlessness, ultimately revealing their picks for who deserves the title of America's greatest general.
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Medals Don’t Define Greatness
- The Medal of Honor highlights individual valor but not necessarily the greatest generals across history.
- Major Jonathan Bratten frames greatness as a mix of leadership, logistics, and public profile.
Leadership Equals Logistics And Care
- Great generals balance mission success with care for their soldiers' welfare.
- Bratten emphasizes administration and logistics as core to high-level command.
Eisenhower’s Noncombat Rise
- Eisenhower lacked combat command experience but rose through staff and administrative skill.
- George C. Marshall repeatedly promoted him for coalition leadership roles.
