From Caligula to Stalin and beyond, this book offers a unique and pioneering look at the recurring phenomenon of the mad king from the early centuries of the Christian era to modern times. The remarkable facts that emerge lead the author to contend that mental health has played a determinant part in the making of history, where private traumas provoke the public policies of deranged statesmen. This controversial study makes for fascinating reading; it also offers a challenging new perspective on our understanding both of history and contemporary politics.