How to Think Like a General: Colin Powell

Trace the career of General Colin Powell to discover how his exceptional abilities and unique perspective helped him rise through the ranks of the US Army to achieve greatness. Overview Course No. 90171

General Colin Powell has been described as one of the greatest American military leaders to emerge since World War II. His success in the military led to his nomination to the Joint Chiefs of Staff and, ultimately, to Secretary of State. How did the son of working-class immigrants rise so dramatically through the ranks to achieve nearly unprecedented military success?

This is what you will discover in How to Think Like a General: Colin Powell, taught by Dr. Jeffrey Matthews of the University of Puget Sound. As you trace the life and career of General Powell, you’ll see how his unique perspective and approach to leadership fueled his rise to some of the highest positions of power in both the military and the civilian government. Along the way, you’ll have the unique opportunity to discover how the traits and values that powered Powell’s achievements can provide an exemplary lesson in leadership.

Video Lectures

01: How to Think Like a General: Colin Powell

How can being a good follower make you a good leader? While this idea sounds like a contradiction, the career of four-star general Colin Powell illustrates the importance of embracing the leader-follower paradox. Join Dr. Jeffrey Matthews of the University of Puget Sound as he demonstrates how an “amicable but aimless” young man grew up to achieve such remarkable success.