This book tells the epic story of Israel's struggle to exist through the triumphs and tragedies of the first thirty five years of its life, providing a blow by blow account of one of history's most bitter and enduring conflicts - Arab versus Jew. As well as describing every campaign in absorbing and incisive detail - full of desperate defensive actions against massive odds in outlying settlements, fast-paced armoured battles, and breathtaking strategy - Herzog highlights the personal and political struggles that have determined the Middle East conflict.