Sir William Howe: A Study in Failed Strategic Leadership

reportActive / Technical Report | Accession Number: ADA589441 | Open PDF

Abstract:

This paper examines the strategic leadership competencies of British General William Howe during the American Revolution 1775-1778. During the American War of Independence, General Howe displayed periodic tactical brilliance and operational competence but consistent strategic ineptitude. After arriving in America, Howe was quickly thrust into the position of Commander-in-Chief of British Forces and General of North America. Howes lack of self awareness, ineptness in managing the personalities of his subordinate commanders, personal biases, and lack of political savvy resulted in the strategic failure of the British war effort. Howes difficulty in transitioning from tactical, through operational to the strategic level provides a useful example as to the dramatically different challenges faced by current leaders as they prepare for and address similar challenges in our contemporary operational and strategic environment.

Author(s):
Mchugh, Brian J.
Author Organization(s):
ARMY WAR COLLEGE CARLISLE BARRACKS PA
Descriptive Note:
Research paper
Supplementary Note:
DOI: 10.21236/ADA589441
Pagination:
0052

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:
USAWC
 Subject Terms
Joint Capability Areas:
JCA_5_Command and Control; JCA_5.3_Planning; JCA_8_Building Partnerships; JCA_3_Force Application; JCA_3.1_Maneuver; JCA_8.2_Shape; JCA_3.1.1_Maneuver to Engage; JCA_1_Force Support; JCA_5.3.3_Develop Strategy; JCA_5.3.2_Apply Situational Understanding; JCA_2_Battlespace Awareness; JCA_2.1_Planning and Direction; JCA_8.2.2_Provide Aid to Foreign Partners and Institutions; JCA_2.1.2_Develop Strategies; JCA_5.3.1_Analyze Problem; JCA_3.1.2_Maneuver to Insert; JCA_8.2.4_Leverage Capacities and Capabilities of Security Establishments; JCA_1.2_Force Preparation; JCA_1.1_Force Management; JCA_8.2.1_Partner with Governments and Institutions; JCA_1.2.3_Educating
Communities of Interest:
Human Systems
Descriptor(s):
*LEADERSHIP, *MILITARY FORCES(FOREIGN), *MILITARY HISTORY, EDUCATION, WARFARE
Field(s)/Group(s):
Administration and Management, Humanities and History, Military Forces and Organizations
Keyword(s):
AMERICAN REVOLUTION, HOWE GENERAL WILLIAM, STRATEGIC LEADERSHIP COMPETENCIES
Report Date:
2013 Mar 01
Creation Date:
2013 Dec 18