Paperback edition of the biography of the Duke of Marlborough, aka John Churchill, who rose from genteel poverty to become Britain's greatest soldier. An exhilarating account by the military historian well known for his TV work as well as bestsellers including }Tommy{ and }Redcoats{, both of which sold 120,000 copies Bestselling military historian Richard Holmes delivers an expertly written and exhilarating account of the life of John Churchill, the Duke of Marlborough and Britain's finest soldier, who rose from genteel poverty to lead his country to glory, cementing its position as a major player on the European stage and saviour of the Holy Roman Empire.