Wellington: A Personal History

All you could ask for in a "personal biography". So, there is wide referencing from contemporary memoirs, diaries and accounts from the major figures of the time. Skilfully written with no over concentration on any aspects of the Duke's life, military or political. Accompanied by insightful footnotes that are pertinent and topical.
I read the book because I'm a resident of Wellington, NZ and much the wiser for having done so. Sadly, he was a complete bastard to his wife.

A nice biography by Christopher Hibbert. Although Hibbert disclaims any "in depth" coverage of Wellington's military and political careers, most readers should find what he offers more than sufficient. Hibbert quotes original sources (letters and diaries, mostly) freely and extensively, which lives up to his conceit by giving a "personal" feeling to the biography. We are shown Wellington through the eyes of those who knew him, as well as the world through his eyes. Although Hibbert doesn't wallow in salacious details, neither does he polish away Wellington's less attractive qualities (the opposition to reform, his support for flogging, his treatment of his wife), giving the reader confidence in his book and a real sense of the man show more behind the myth. The extensive citations don't hurt, either. show less

Found this a fascinating read. Although there were times when I felt there may have been too much information. Still it gives useful insight to the man who defeated Napoleon.