Winston Churchill was born into a wealthy aristocratic family. He grew up with stories of his ancestor, John Churchill, First Duke of Marlborough, who led the British army to triumph against the French and Bavarians in the War of the Spanish Succession.

After serving in the British Cavalry, Winston followed his father in politics, eventually becoming Prime Minister of Great Britain as Europe descended into war once again. Before long, the British stood alone against Adolf Hitler and the Nazis. During this dark time, Winston’s leadership skills were put to the test as he encouraged his countrymen to stand firm against the would-be German invaders. Without Winston Churchill’s courage, vision, and perseverance under these extreme circumstances, the outcome of World War II might well have been very different (1874–1965).