On August 14, 1942, Chief of Staff George C. Marshall appointed General Dwight D. Eisenhower Commander of the European theater of operations for North Africa. This book explores the idea that both Eisenhower and Marshall made too many decisions which were based not on sound military principles, but rather on nationalism and well-intended generosity. Beginning with his appointment and the planning of the invasion of North Africa, this work suggests that Eisenhower's involvement in political situations weakened his effectiveness on the battlefield.