Few Indian politicians of the nationalist generation have been the object of as much revilement or fascination as V. K. Krishna Menon. Unquestionably erudite, widely believed to be irascible and a close confidante of Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru, he had an extraordinary career in public life. He had served as India's high commissioner (ambassador) to London, as its permanent representative to the United Nations, and then as India's defense minister. It was in his last position that he witnessed his fall from grace. During his tenure, the People's Liberation Army launched a well-orchestrated attack on India's northern borders. The Indian Army, which was wholly unprepared for this onslaught, put up a valiant resistance in particular areas but mostly collapsed in the wake of this invasion. Despite Menon's closeness to Nehru, he was forced to step down from office. After a brief hiatus, he was successfully elected to office once again....
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