Boyd

In 'Boyd', Robert Coram delves into the life of John Boyd, a maverick military strategist who revolutionized air combat and challenged the status quo. Known for his unconventional ideas and fierce dedication, Boyd's legacy questions the very foundations of military doctrine. Readers will uncover the thrilling stories behind his famous OODA loop concept, which changed decision-making processes in warfare. Coram paints a portrait of a man who, though an outsider, profoundly impacted not just the U.S. Air Force but modern military thinking as a whole. This gripping biography beckons readers to explore the intersection of genius, conflict, and innovation.

By Robert Coram

Published: 2004

""Leadership is about making others better as a result of your presence and making sure that impact lasts in your absence.""

BoydBook binding

Start Listening

0:000:00

What Readers Say About This Book

John Boyd may be the most remarkable unsung hero in all of American military history. Some remember him as the greatest U.S. fighter pilot ever -- the man who, in simulated air-to-air combat, defeated every challenger in less than forty seconds. Some recall him as the father of our country's most legendary fighter aircraft -- the F-15 and F-16. Still others think of Boyd as the most influential military theorist since Sun Tzu. They know only half the story. Boyd, more than any other person, saved fighter aviation from the predations of the Strategic Air Command. His manual of fighter tactics changed the way every air force in the world flies and fights. He discovered a physical theory that forever altered the way fighter planes were designed. Later in life, he developed a theory of military strategy that has been adopted throughout the world and even applied to business models for maximizing efficiency. And in one of the most startling and unknown stories of modern military history, the Air Force fighter pilot taught the U.S. Marine Corps how to fight war on the ground. His ideas led to America's swift and decisive victory in the Gulf War and foretold the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001. On a personal level, Boyd rarely met a general he couldn't offend. He was loud, abrasive, and profane. A man of daring, ferocious passion and intractable stubbornness, he was that most American of heroes -- a rebel who cared not for his reputation or fortune but for his country. He was a true patriot, a man who made a career of challenging the shortsighted and self-serving Pentagon bureaucracy. America owes Boyd and his disciples -- the six men known as the "Acolytes" -- a great debt. Robert Coram finally brings to light the remarkable story of a man who polarized all who knew him, but who left a legacy that will influence the military -- and all of America -- for decades to come. ..

About the Author

R

Robert Coram

Robert Coram is a renowned American author and journalist, best known for his compelling non-fiction works that often explore themes of military history and leadership. His notable books include 'Boyd: The Fighter Pilot Who Changed the Art of War', which examines the life and innovations of fighter pilot John Boyd, and 'Ain't It Cool: A Year of Stupid Predictions', showcasing Coram's incisive commentary on contemporary issues. Coram's writing is characterized by thorough research, engaging storytelling, and a keen insight into the human experience, making complex subjects accessible to a broad audience.

Book Details

Key information about the book.

Authors
Robert Coram
Published
May 2004
Publisher
Back Bay Books
ISBN
0316796883
Language
English
Pages
504
Genres
BiographyPolitical BiographiesMilitary HistoryPolitics and Current Affairs

Purchase Options

Amazon logoBuy on Amazon
BookShop logoBuy via BookShop

Support local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!

Similar books you might like →

The Autobiography of Benjamin FranklinBook binding

The Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin

Benjamin Franklin

Benjamin FranklinBook binding

Benjamin Franklin

Walter Isaacson

ChurchillBook binding

Churchill

Clive Ponting

The Power BrokerBook binding

The Power Broker

Robert A. Caro

Autobiography of a YogiBook binding

Autobiography of a Yogi

Yogananda (Paramahansa)

Nelson MandelaBook binding

Nelson Mandela

Barry Denenberg

Catherine the GreatBook binding

Catherine the Great

Robert K. Massie

Jack KennedyBook binding

Jack Kennedy

Chris Matthews

Showing 8 of 30 similar books

Take your reading experience to the next level

Download our mobile app to enjoy your favorite books on the go. Get access to exclusive features, offline listening, and personalized recommendations.

Download on the App Store

Book Collections you might like →

Donald Trump's Book Recommendations

Donald Trump's Book Recommendations

Donald Trump is a prominent American businessman, television personality, and politician who served as the 45th President of the United States from 2017 to 2021. Prior to his presidency, he gained fame as a real estate mogul and the host of the reality TV show "The Apprentice." In the realm of literature, Trump has authored several best-selling books, including "The Art of the Deal," which offers insights into his business strategies and philosophies. His literary contributions reflect his larger-than-life persona and business acumen, influencing both aspiring entrepreneurs and political enthusiasts. Despite his polarizing tenure, Trump's impact on American politics and popular culture remains significant.

View Collection
Barack Obama's Book Recommendations

Barack Obama's Book Recommendations

Barack Obama is the 44th President of the United States, serving from 2009 to 2017. As the first African American president, Obama’s leadership marked a historic moment in American history. His administration focused on healthcare reform, economic recovery from the Great Recession, and environmental policies. He is best known for the Affordable Care Act, as well as his efforts to expand civil rights and restore diplomatic relations with Cuba. Since leaving office, Obama has continued to engage in public life through his foundation, focusing on leadership development, civic engagement, and global issues.

View Collection
Jocko Willink's Book Recommendations

Jocko Willink's Book Recommendations

Jocko Willink is a retired Navy SEAL officer, renowned for his leadership during the Battle of Ramadi in the Iraq War, which earned him the Silver Star and Bronze Star. Transitioning from military service, he co-authored the best-selling book "Extreme Ownership: How U.S. Navy SEALs Lead and Win" with fellow SEAL Leif Babin, which has become a cornerstone in leadership and management literature. Willink has also written the "Way of the Warrior Kid" series, aimed at empowering young readers with principles of discipline and resilience. Additionally, he hosts the popular "Jocko Podcast," where he discusses leadership, discipline, and personal development. Willink's influence extends beyond literature through his Echelon Front leadership consultancy, helping organizations implement effective leadership strategies.

View Collection
Michelle Obama's Book Recommendations

Michelle Obama's Book Recommendations

Michelle Obama is an American attorney, author, and former First Lady of the United States, serving from 2009 to 2017. She is widely recognized for her advocacy on issues such as education, military families, healthy eating, and poverty awareness. Her memoir, "Becoming," published in 2018, has been a global bestseller and acclaimed for its insightful and inspiring narrative. Michelle Obama has also launched initiatives like "Let’s Move!" to combat childhood obesity and the "Reach Higher" campaign to encourage higher education. Her work continues to influence and empower millions around the world.

View Collection
Elon Musk's Book Recommendations

Elon Musk's Book Recommendations

Elon Musk is an influential entrepreneur and innovator known for founding and leading several groundbreaking companies, including Tesla, SpaceX, Neuralink, and The Boring Company. He has played a pivotal role in advancing electric vehicles, space exploration, and renewable energy. Musk's vision extends to colonizing Mars and reducing the risk of human extinction through space travel. In addition to his technological contributions, he has co-authored the book "Spacex: Making Commercial Spaceflight a Reality," providing insights into his ambitious projects and vision for the future. Musk's relentless pursuit of innovation continues to shape the trajectory of multiple industries.

View Collection
Bill Gates's Book Recommendations

Bill Gates's Book Recommendations

Bill Gates, co-founder of Microsoft Corporation, is a pioneering figure in the tech industry, having played a key role in the personal computer revolution. His work at Microsoft, particularly the development of Windows, transformed software and computing globally. Beyond his technology contributions, Gates is also a prolific author, with notable works such as "The Road Ahead" and "Business @ the Speed of Thought," which offer insights into the future of technology and business. Additionally, his philanthropic efforts through the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation have had a profound impact on global health, education, and poverty. Gates continues to influence both technology and literature with his forward-thinking perspectives and innovative ideas.

View Collection
Noam Chomsky's Book Recommendations

Noam Chomsky's Book Recommendations

Noam Chomsky, born December 7, 1928, is an influential American linguist, philosopher, cognitive scientist, historian, and social critic. He revolutionized the field of linguistics with his theory of generative grammar, particularly through his seminal work, "Syntactic Structures" (1957). Chomsky's contributions extend beyond linguistics to political activism, where he is known for his critiques of U.S. foreign policy and media, encapsulated in works like "Manufacturing Consent" (1988). As a professor emeritus at MIT, his interdisciplinary approach has significantly impacted cognitive science, philosophy of language, and political thought. Chomsky remains a prolific author and speaker, continuing to shape academic and public discourses.

View Collection
Brian Armstrong's Book Recommendations

Brian Armstrong's Book Recommendations

Brian Armstrong is a renowned entrepreneur and author best known for co-founding and leading Coinbase, a major cryptocurrency exchange. His literary contributions include insightful writings on the future of digital currencies and blockchain technology. Armstrong's work has been pivotal in demystifying complex financial systems for a broader audience. Beyond his business acumen, his thought leadership in publications and public speaking engagements has cemented his status as a key voice in the fintech revolution. His dedication to innovation continues to influence the trajectory of global financial systems.

View Collection

Showing 8 of 11 related collections

"Leadership is about making others better as a result of your presence and making sure that impact lasts in your absence."

Boyd

By Robert Coram