The classical distinctions between "strategy," "operations," and
"tactics" in warfare derive from two basic sources-Carl von
Clausewitz and Antoine-Henri de Jomini, both veterans of the
Napoleonic wars who translated their experiences into books
outlining general precepts about the nature and rules of military
engagement. Nearly two centuries after the publication of these
works, Jomini has been all but forgotten, but Clausewitz's On War
remains perhaps the most significant work of military theory ever
written. He has become a global brand, one constantly refreshed by
a flow of books and articles debating his ideas and arguing what he
truly meant in various passages of On War. The masterwork appears
in an array of translations sweeping from Arabic to Vietnamese.
Military staff colleges the world over use Clausewitz's text,
largely to prepare their officers for staff positions and higher
command. Military historian Donald Stoker here offers an incisive
biography of Carl von Clausewitz, sketching out his life and career
and exploring the various causes that led to the formulation of his
theories about war. Though On War remained unfinished at the time
of his death in 1831, Clausewitz's devoted wife, Marie, organized
the papers he had left behind and arranged for their publication.
The ten volumes of Clausewitz's collected works appeared from
1832-1837, with On War encompassing the first three volumes. Stoker
considers both the merits and detriments of the works, but also
pays careful attention to the life and experiences of Clausewitz
himself. In doing so, he notes that those discussing Clausewitz's
legacy as a theorist today have largely forgotten what was most
important to him: being a soldier, and one of renown. Clausewitz is
often remembered merely as staff officer, someone pushing papers
and not in the midst of battle. Though Stoker notes that Clausewitz
certainly spilled his share of ink, he also spilled blood - his as
well as that of the enemy. He experienced the mass warfare of his
age at its most intense and visceral. He knew what it was like to
be wounded, to be a prisoner, to have friends killed and wounded,
to suffer hunger and thirst, and to have the heat and cold try to
kill him after the enemy's best efforts had failed. Success on the
field of battle-success meaning victory as well as distinguishing
one's self above one's comrades, who are also brave and daring men
- this, Stoker shows, is what drove Clausewitz. Stoker also
considers the continuing relevance of Clausewitz's work today,
particularly focusing on its effect on strategic thinking in
American foreign policy. The result is a brilliant reassessment of
both the man and his legacy, one that adds to our understanding of
Clausewitz and his place in today's military and political
landscape.
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