Frederick the Great and Bismarck: Standards for Modern Strategists

reportActive / Technical Report | Accession Number: ADA228007 | Open PDF

Abstract:

This study examines two historical strategists, Frederick the Great and Otto von Bismarck, to determine if history provides any solutions for modern strategists. The study uses Michael Howards elements of grand strategy. Five elements of grand strategy are discussed operational, logistical, social, technological, and political. Fredericks and Bismarcks use of these elements is examined during the times they dominated policy making in Prussia. The conclusions verify Fredericks and Bismarcks strategic effectiveness Frederick as King and Bismarck as Prime Minister provide numerous examples of successful implementation of grand strategy. Although our world is more complicated, there are definite applications for the modern strategist. The final section of the paper is a discussion of some modern strategic issues. rwj

Author(s):
Janes, William H.
Author Organization(s):
ARMY COMMAND AND GENERAL STAFF COLL FORT LEAVENWORTH KS SCHOOL OF ADVANCED MILITARY STUDIES
Supplementary Note:
DOI: 10.21236/ADA228007
Pagination:
0049

Security Markings

DOCUMENT & CONTEXTUAL SUMMARY

Distribution:
Approved For Public Release
Distribution Statement:
Approved For Public Release; Distribution Is Unlimited.

RECORD

Collection: TR
Identifying Numbers
Monitor Series:
USACGSC
 Subject Terms
Joint Capability Areas:
JCA_5_Command and Control; JCA_5.3_Planning; JCA_3_Force Application; JCA_3.1_Maneuver; JCA_3.1.1_Maneuver to Engage; JCA_5.3.3_Develop Strategy; JCA_1_Force Support; JCA_8_Building Partnerships; JCA_3.1.2_Maneuver to Insert; JCA_1.1_Force Management; JCA_5.3.1_Analyze Problem; JCA_8.2_Shape; JCA_8.1_Communicate; JCA_3.2_Engagement; JCA_3.2.1_Kinetic Means; JCA_1.2_Force Preparation; JCA_8.2.2_Provide Aid to Foreign Partners and Institutions; JCA_8.1.1_Inform Domestic and Foreign Audiences; JCA_8.1.2_Persuade Partner Audiences; JCA_1.2.3_Educating; JCA_1.3_Human Capital Management
Modernization Areas:
Autonomy
Communities of Interest:
Energy and Power Technologies
Descriptor(s):
*HISTORY, *MILITARY STRATEGY, THESES, MILITARY FORCES(FOREIGN), FOREIGN POLICY, UNITED STATES
Field(s)/Group(s):
Humanities and History, Military Operations, Strategy and Tactics
Keyword(s):
FREDERICK THE GREAT, BISMARCK OV, GRAND STRATEGY, HOWARD M, PRUSSIA, STRATEGY DEVELOPMENT, EXECUTION OF STRATEGY
Report Date:
1988 Jul 15