November 07

Born in Metz, Jean Baptiste Eugène Estienne graduated from the École Polytechnique and devoted his career to artillery innovation. During World War I, he advocated for and oversaw the development of France's first tanks, including the Schneider CA1 and Saint-Chamond. His vision for mechanized forces led to the establishment of dedicated armored units. After the war, he continued to refine tank tactics and designs, influencing military doctrine worldwide. His contributions earned him high military honors and the enduring title of the 'Father of the Tank.'

Born Lev Bronstein in 1879, Leon Trotsky was a central figure in the 1917 Russian Revolution. As Commissar of Military Affairs, he organized and led the Red Army during the Civil War. Trotsky’s brilliant oratory and theoretical writings helped define early Soviet ideology. He authored influential works such as History of the Russian Revolution and Permanent Revolution. After Lenin’s death, Trotsky lost a power struggle with Stalin and was exiled in 1929. In exile, he continued writing and founded the Fourth International to promote global revolution. Trotsky was assassinated in Mexico City in 1940 by a Soviet agent acting on Stalin’s orders. His legacy endures as a symbol of dissent and revolutionary thought.

Born in 1918, Paul Aussaresses rose through the ranks of the French military to become a general renowned for his expertise in intelligence and guerrilla warfare. During the Algerian War, he oversaw harsh interrogation techniques and tactics aimed at suppressing the independence movement. After retiring, he published memoirs detailing his actions, which sparked widespread debate over military ethics. He continued to influence counter-insurgency doctrine until his death in 2013. His admissions led to legal and moral discussions about torture and state responsibility. Aussaresses remains a polarizing figure in military history.

Boris Gromov gained fame as commander of Soviet troops in the Afghan War, demonstrating strategic acumen and resilience. After retiring from the military, he entered politics and was elected Governor of Moscow Oblast in 2000. During his twelve-year tenure, Gromov oversaw significant infrastructure development and social reforms. He has been recognized for his disciplined leadership style and dedication to veterans. His dual career in military and civil service has left a lasting impact on modern Russian history.

Born in 1952, David Petraeus graduated from the United States Military Academy at West Point before earning a Ph.D. in international relations from Princeton University. He commanded the 101st Airborne Division and later led multinational forces in Iraq, where his 2007 'surge' strategy was credited with reducing violence. Petraeus served as Commander of U.S. Central Command and ultimately became Director of the CIA in 2011, focusing on counterterrorism and cyber threats. He has authored several books and articles on leadership and counterinsurgency, influencing military doctrine worldwide. Despite a resignation in 2012, his strategic insights continue to be sought after in academia and government. Petraeus holds teaching positions at leading universities and remains an active commentator on security issues.