On Tuesday’s St. Louis on the Air, host Don Marsh discussed “Hero of the Empire,” a book by New York Times-bestselling author Candice Millard about Winston Churchill’s experiences in early adulthood as a reporter during the Boer War.
"Churchill was only 24 years old but this was the fourth war he had taken part in on three different continents," Millard said. "He was incredibly ambitious. He had already run for parliament and lost. He had already written three books. He wanted to succeed, to be famous, to be powerful; he wanted to be the Prime Minister of Great Britain. He knew he was destined for greatness and he thought the best way to get there would be through war. He called war the 'glittering gateway to distinction.'"
The book was recently released in paperback. Millard is also the author of “Destiny of the Republic” and “The River of Doubt.” Her next work will focus on the people who searched to find the source of the Nile. That won't be out for another four years, though, Millard said.
Listen as Millard discusses Winston Churchill's efforts as a reporter during the Boer War and his daring escape from capture:
St. Louis on the Air brings you the stories of St. Louis and the people who live, work and create in our region. St. Louis on the Air host Don Marsh and producers Mary Edwards, Alex Heuer and Kelly Moffitt give you the information you need to make informed decisions and stay in touch with our diverse and vibrant St. Louis region.