It is not the intention of this chapter to regurgitate the usual debates over Harris’s conduct of the bomber offensive.1 Like most historians of the air war, the author has suffered for many years with ‘Harris fatigue’, and felt that there was little new to say about the man. However, a number of unexplored ‘rabbit holes’ presented themselves in the course of recent research into the Commonwealth contribution to the air war, and a re-examination of Harris as a leader is warranted. It is worth considering the wider leadership issues raised by Harris’s early career and tenure during the war, first as Air Officer Commanding No. 5 Group, Bomber Command, then as Deputy Chief of Air Staff, rather than focusing purely on his time as AOC-in-C of Bomber Command.

Sir Arthur Harris' leadership during the air war warrants re-examination, considering his early career and tenure as a leader, rather than solely focusing on his time as AOC-in-C of Bomber Command.

Sir Arthur Harris: Different Perspectives

Key Takeaway: Sir Arthur Harris' leadership during the air war warrants re-examination, considering his early career and tenure as a leader, rather than solely focusing on his time as AOC-in-C of Bomber Command.