Carl von Clausewitz
Born: 05-31-1780
Carl von Clausewitz was a Prussian general and influential military theorist, best known for his seminal work "On War." Born in 1780, his ideas on the complexities and dynamics of warfare have profoundly impacted military strategy and philosophy. Clausewitz emphasized the "fog of war" and the concept of war as an extension of politics. His theories continue to be studied in military academies worldwide, reflecting their enduring relevance.
Book summaries for books written by Carl von Clausewitz
Quotes
War is the continuation of politics by other means.
The backbone of surprise is fusing speed with secrecy.
No one starts a war - or rather, no one in his senses ought to do so - without first being clear in his mind what he intends to achieve by that war and how he intends to conduct it.
War is the realm of uncertainty; three quarters of the factors on which action in war is based are wrapped in a fog of greater or lesser uncertainty.
Everything in war is simple, but the simplest thing is difficult.
The best strategy is always to be very strong.
Courage, above all things, is the first quality of a warrior.
The conqueror is always a lover of peace; he would prefer to take over our country unopposed.
The greater the strategic goal, the greater the risk that must be taken.
War is the province of chance. In no other sphere of human activity must such a margin be left to chance as in the art of war.
In war, the moral element and the spirit of the troops account for a great deal.
To introduce into the philosophy of war a principle of moderation would be an absurdity.