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Pompey Elliott

Ross McMullin

POMPEY ELLIOTT was a remarkable Australian. During the Great War he was a charismatic, controversial, and outstandingly successful military leader. An accomplished tactician and 'the bravest of the brave', he was renowned for never sending anyone anywhere he was not prepared to go himself.

A man of unimpeachable integrity and unwavering commitment, 'as straight as a ruled line', he was also forthright and volatile. His tempestuousness generated a host of 'Pompey' anecdotes that amused his men and disconcerted his superiors. 

As a result, no Australian general was more revered by those he led or more famous outside his own command. An officer on his staff even concluded that 'no greater soldier or gentleman ever lived'.

Yet surprisingly little has been written about Elliott - until now. This comprehensive, deeply researched biography finally tells his fascinating story. It vividly examines Elliott's origins and youth, peacetime careers as a lawyer and politician, and his achievements well as the controversies he aroused during his years as a soldier. Ross McMullin's masterly work retrieves a significant Australian from undeserved obscurity. It also judiciously reassesses notable battles he influenced -including the Gallipoli Landing, Lone Fromelles, Polygon Wood, and Villers-Bretonneux - and illuminates numerous aspects of Australia's experience during his lifetime.