General Sir Herbert Lawrence - the unsung architect of victory?

Published on 12 March 2021
Submitted by Paul Harris

This talk by Paul Harris was delivered 'live' to an online audience. In this, Paul will discuss one of the 'forgotten' Generals of the First World War.

As Chief of Staff to Field Marshal Sir Douglas Haig in 1918, General Sir Herbert Lawrence played a key role in the defeat of Germany in the First World War. Described as 'a man of outstanding ability both as a soldier and in business', it is surprising that this towering individual has received such little attention. He remains one of the forgotten figures of the war. 

This presentation will trace his remarkable career and argue that Lawrence has a strong claim to be recognised as one of the principal architects of Allied victory. It will be based upon Paul's recently published book 'General Sir Herbert Lawrence, Haig's Chief of Staff'.

General Sir Herbert Lawrence - the unsung architect of victory?
Key benefits of membership

Becoming a member of The Western Front Association (WFA) offers a wealth of resources and opportunities for those passionate about the history of the First World War. Here's just three of the benefits we offer:

Bulletin Magazine Icon
Bulletin Magazine

This magazine provides updates on WW1 related news, WFA activities and events.

Virtual Battlefield Tours Icon
Virtual battlefield tours

Access online tours of significant WWI sites, providing immense learning experience.

Podcasts Ebinars Icon
Podcasts

Listen to over 300 episodes of the "Mentioned in Dispatches" podcast.

Other Articles

Gemini Generated Image Nizgwnnizgwnnizg
28 April 2026

Alexander Kazakov – Russia’s greatest fighter ace of the First World War

Read more
64852F7b Ad22 46B4 9276 40121F4ec3f2
21 April 2026

The Lonely Anzac

Read more
Aa1jrmgl (1)
15 April 2026

Morale and Sensemaking on the Western Front

Read more
Gemini Generated Image 9Os6yp9os6yp9os6
9 April 2026

Ace in a Day: instances of WW1 airmen shooting down multiple opponents in a single day

Read more
George V Inspecting 29Th Division At Dunchurch March 1915 (1) (1)
6 April 2026

A Campaign in Two Halves: The 29th Division’s ‘Incomparables’ Sept 1915 - Jan 1916

Read more