"Gustavus Adolphus, Sweden and the Thirty Years War, 1630-1632" by Dr. Lars Ericson Wolke is a meticulously researched and captivating exploration of the pivotal role played by the Swedish king, Gustavus Adolphus, during the early stages of the Thirty Years War. Dr. Wolke delves into the political, military, and diplomatic aspects of this tumultuous period, skillfully weaving together historical analysis and personal narratives to create a vivid portrait of a complex and transformative leader.

"Gustavus Adolphus, Sweden and the Thirty Years War, 1630-1632" is an engaging and enlightening read for anyone interested in European history, military history, or the life and legacy of one of Sweden's most celebrated leaders.

Dr. Wolke introduces the reading audience to a virtual unknown creator and shaper of the Western World. During the "Thirty Years War" that ravaged the European Continent from 1618 to 1648 the forces of reformation and counter-reformation decimated Central Europe and the German States in particular. Enter Gustavus Adolphus and his modern way of war. He did not create new means of making war but he did adopt many of them and adapt them to the battlefield he was fighting. Gone were the "Tercios" and their "Spanish Squares" heavy reliance on pikes to be replaced by more guns and flexible maneuver elements. Most importantly was his rigid enforcement of military discipline that tried to prevent wanton rape, pillage, and brutality that was commonplace as well as accepted in the day and age.

Very interesting and informative for an ordinary person who only knows a little about Gustav Aldoph, like me. As a fan of a related fiction series, it was nice to learn about the real man and the real history he lived.