A collection of illustrated biographical sketches of twelve prominent leaders and agents whose actions the author argues shaped Britain's imperial expansion. Each chapter presents a vivid portrait combining narrative anecdotes and interpretive commentary to show how military, naval, political, and colonial figures contributed to empire-building, often assessing moral ambiguities while emphasizing practical outcomes. The foreword frames the series as gathering material for a larger national epic and advocates an imperial patriotism that unites regional identities. Illustrations punctuate the text and the author aims to portray the living man at work rather than dry chronologies, balancing admiration with candid appraisal.