The Raider

In The Raider, Cundill Prize-winning historian Stephen R. Platt presents the compelling life story of Evans Carlson, a forgotten World War II hero and the commander of America's first special forces. Renowned for his collaboration with Chinese forces and innovative guerrilla tactics, Carlson became a legendary figure within the Marine Corps, leading the elite Marine Raiders. Drawing from extensive research, including newly uncovered diaries and correspondence, Platt explores Carlson's complex legacy, highlighting his cultural insights and the challenges he faced during the McCarthy era. This narrative not only recounts Carlson's military exploits but also delves into themes of exploration and cultural understanding.