George Washington: Spymaster and General Who Saved the American Revolution

This monograph analyzes George Washington as the Intelligence Chief, Spy Master, and Commander in Chief of the Continental Army. It investigates the critical role he played in shaping the American Revolution with the use of espionage, deception, and intelligence operations. It initiates with a review of the beginning of the American Revolution and establishes British and American dispositions, preparations, and intentions. It then transitions to the initial American intelligence failures between 1775 through 1776. The work then addresses how Washington established his intelligence networks in New York, New Jersey, and Philadelphia. The monograph highlights the victory and contributions of Washingtons spy networks culminating in a Colonial victory at Yorktown in 1781. Finally, it concludes with a comparative analysis and lessons for todays operational artists and compares Washingtons intelligence operations against Field Manual 2-0, Intelligence to demonstrate his timeless contributions to the American victory. George Washington was instrumental in delivering a victory during the American Revolution through his effective management of intelligence resources, skillful leadership, and timely alliances. He entered the American Revolution having first-hand experience with costly intelligence failures, which prompted him to focus extensive resources and efforts toward intelligence. He skillfully led the Continental Army by developing timely, accurate, and relevant intelligence that allowed him to avoid battles he knew he would lose and enter battles he knew he would win. Washington, George, 1732-1799 Information Intelligence collection Espionage Intelligence operations Lessons learned United States Continental Army