James Holland may not be familiar to many American readers. In addition to writing numerous World War II histories, Holland hosts (along with British comedian Al Murray) “We Have Ways of Making You Talk,” a WWII podcast that boasts an audience of more than two million in the United Kingdom, Australia, Ireland, New Zealand and the United States. Clearly he knows his subject.

In his latest book, THE VISIONARIES, Holland manages in just 267 pages to provide readers with a clear summary of world events --- from the beginning of World War I to its conclusion, the failure of the League of Nations, the economic collapse of the 1920s and ’30s, the rise of Hitler, the New Deal and World War II. He accomplishes this history in short, informative and simply written chapters. Whatever your political or national persuasion, it allows you to understand how the current international order, now seemingly undergoing a major renovation, came into being.

"Holland manages in just 267 pages to provide readers with a clear summary of world events... He accomplishes this history in short, informative and simply written chapters."

At the conclusion of this masterful effort, Holland takes the opportunity to remind readers what might be the result if those post-WWII structures are simply abandoned and forgotten. 

Holland’s portrayal of the significant figures of the first half of the 20th century is led by Franklin Roosevelt and Harry Truman. Roosevelt’s leadership was especially critical from the time that WWII began until its waning days when he died of a cerebral hemorrhage in April 1945. Truman took over the presidency immediately following Roosevelt’s death. But it was not until days after assuming office that Truman was advised that the United States was building an atomic weapon. As Holland observes, “No other incoming president had ever faced such awesome responsibilities. Few would have bet that Harry S. Truman would prove equal to this immense challenge.” Any bets would have been lost.

In addition to Roosevelt and Truman, the visionaries included John Maynard Keynes, Henry Stimson, George Kennan and George Marshall, a military leader who was both trusted and respected and had a great understanding of the world. I think Marshall deserved more attention from Holland than he receives here. His life has been the subject of many wonderful biographies, and perhaps that is what makes this such an outstanding book. It’s an excellent starting point, and anyone interested in learning more can find references to extensive research in the end notes.

As a broad sweep of history, THE VISIONARIES may not be the deep dive that many readers expect. But the subject and discussion are important for all historians to read, talk about and act upon. Holland’s concluding words are essential for all of us: “The challenges are many, but with leadership, international unity and, above all, vision, we can once again repel the dark forces that threaten us anew.”