The Principles of War - Lessons from Military History on Strategy, Tactics, Doctrine and Leadership.

127 - The General who wouldn't quit: Slim and the longest retreat

14 snips
Apr 25, 2025
Ask episode
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
ANECDOTE

Slim's Early Military Journey

  • William Slim started as a certificated teacher from a modest family and joined the British Army through the university officers' training corps.
  • He was wounded multiple times in WWI and joined the Indian Army in 1919, showing determination early in his career.
INSIGHT

Slim's Leadership in Burma Retreat

  • Slim took command of a chaotic, desperate Burma Corps forced into retreat by the Japanese advance in 1942.
  • He brought coherence and optimism, leading a strategic fighting withdrawal over 1,000 miles in 100 days.
INSIGHT

The Power of Commander's Composure

  • Slim maintained calm and optimism outwardly to inspire confidence despite dire circumstances.
  • Command requires acting composed so subordinates trust the leader has a plan, even amid defeat.
Get the Snipd Podcast app to discover more snips from this episode
Get the app