Creative Capital

SEVEN

FOUNDING FATHERS

(1946–1951)

FOR MANY MEN AND women who came of age in the mid-twentieth century, World War II was the defining experience of their lives. This was as true for Georges Doriot as anyone else. But Doriot’s wartime experience was unique in one way: while Uncle Sam was eager to discharge millions of Americans and return them to private life after the war, the military brass were keen on securing the talents of the ascendant Brigadier General.

The recent conflict had proven beyond a doubt the value of bringing the nation’s science and technology assets to bear on the art of war-making. Doriot was one of only a handful of military leaders who articulated that vision, and had the leadership skills required to transform it into ...