World War II is fascinating because it explored human nature in all its forms, including military tactics and technology, and it's a unique moment in history that we won't see again.

The conflict of ideas is central to warfare, and understanding this can lead to better strategies than just physical force.

Historically, there are two perspectives on how history is shaped: the 'great man' theory, which emphasizes individual leaders, and the 'great forces' theory, which focuses on larger societal forces like demographics and geography.

Augustus is seen as a model for rulers throughout history, representing both a positive and negative legacy, as many aspire to emulate his power and success, similar to how Alexander the Great is viewed.

Understanding history and previous human experiences is crucial for developing effective strategies, as it provides insights into complex situations.

Alexander the Great was successful due to his combination of skill, charisma, and the inherited military system from his father, Philip II, which included the effective use of a mixed army.

I read a lot of history because it allows me to learn from past ideas and avoid reinventing the wheel, which is often overlooked in technology.

Using World War II as a reference for modern conflicts is problematic because it prevents us from seeing our enemies as real people with genuine grievances, which is essential for understanding the complexities of war.

War is fundamentally about human beings and their relationships, not just political or economic factors.