Since were observing Churchills birthday today, it is worth recalling something Gertrude Himmelfarb wrote a few years back:
"When I meet a historian who cannot think that there have been great men, great men moreover in politics, I feel myself in the presence of a bad historian. And there are times when I incline to judge all historians by their opinion of Winston Churchill--whether they can see that, no matter how much better the details, often damaging, of the man and his career become known, he still remains, quite simply, a great man."
Sir Winston was, of course, the giant of the 20th Century. If it hadnt been for him, todays Europe would be the Greater Reich and wed all be speaking German over here.
Sir Winston, being half-American, recognized that Great Britain couldnt possibly defeat Nazi Germany without the United States by her side. This clarity of thought was a major part of his genius. He didnt let petty national jealousies get in the way of his sole aim. Victory. Victory at all costs.
... "a great man"...
Dang it all, I wish to Jesus we didnt need these guys. The entire notion of "great man" always implies way too much blood spilt for my veins to warm to. [sigh] Alas, but for the Neville Kerrys of the world, gallons less of that "blood" is spilt.
If ya catch my drift.
How is it that we are allowing Steve Hayward to posting here, or at the Corner over at NRO.
Steve should be locked into a room, with a little cut out through which we can feed him. And in that room, all of the material he needs to churn out the second part of his AGE OF REAGAN would be included. He would be told that he could not emerge until that book is completed. He would not be allowed out to see his family, nor would he be allowed out for any religious conversion ceremonies, {his supreme religious task is giving glory to the Almighty by finishing that book}, and most assuredly he would not be allowed out to use his Weber grill, on turkeys, steaks, prim ribs, or any other food, {however tasty they may be}. Nor would he be allowed to taunt his peers, by posting pictures at the Corner of these grilled delictibles.
Severe action is necessary. I have my copy of The Age of Reagan, and I want to see that second volume in the new year.