Carl Gustaf Emil Mannerheim is a legendary figure, whose life and career were deeply influential in Finnish and European history.

He is viewed by many as the father of modern Finland after leading the ''White'' faction to victory and independence in the Finnish Civil War of 1918. He then commanded his country''s forces in a sequence of bitter clashes in the ice and snow, in the build-up to, and during, World War II: the Winter War in 1939–40, the Continuation War in 1941–44 and the Lapland War in 1944–45.

This study provides a fascinating insight into Mannerheim''s career, analysing his traits, his biggest victories and his key enemies. Complete with uniform artwork and detailed tactical maps, it is a comprehensive guide to one of the 20th century''s most capable military leaders and statesmen.