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Essay / Churchill by Celia Sandys: Wanted Dead or Alive - 2225
You don't reach a certain plateau in life simply by chance. One lacks the backbone of greatness by never striving for anything out of the ordinary. You can't experience adventure without wanting to play your role as an adventurer. You don't win without risk. Winston Churchill, politician, member of the House of Commons and Prime Minister of Great Britain during World War II, had incredible ambition, courage and confidence early in his life. During the Anglo-Boer War he took risks and were rewarded, wrote and became famous, was social and made acquaintances, led others and gained trust. Chruchill wanted to make an impact on others and was successful in making an impact on the world. Celia Sandys, the author of the book “Churchill: Wanted Dead or Alive,” is the granddaughter of Winston Churchill. This book gives both the tedious details of Winston Churchill's involvement in the Anglo-Boer War and a clear insight into this man's character and determination. In 1899, England, a colonial power, wished to maintain its dominant status in South Africa and encountered opposition from the local Dutch Boers. Churchill arrived in South Africa as a war correspondent, only there officially to observe events, publish articles and not to take part in the fighting. He had already been a soldier in Britain and had a passion for being close to the action - a feeling that would be realized soon enough in South Africa and later when he became an officer. Churchill said: “War service was the fast track to promotion and advancement. It was the glittering gateway to distinction” (Sandys 1). The details of the war in the book provide insight into Churchill's personality and show positive traits...... middle of paper...... efforts. The Anglo-Boer War was one of the experiences that shaped Churchill before he was ready to become a world leader. He made a name for himself by trying to fully live the circumstances of his life. He observed and acquired knowledge – and he was respected. He risked and succeeded – and he was admired. A leader is dynamic if he can be respected and admired. Winston Churchill achieved this. Works Cited Sandys, Celia. Churchill: Wanted dead or alive. New York: Carroll and Graf, 1999. Churchill, Winston S., MP “Churchill as War Leader: Lessons for the Future.” Speech to the International Churchill Society. The Churchill Center. Online. November 7, 2002. www.winstonchurchill.org#5 Related to entrepreneurship (leadership traits – 32, note on page 180)#4 World War II (p.28)#6 Defining success – Churchill he succeeded?