On War is a classic military strategy book written by Prussian general Carl von Clausewitz. First published in 1832, it has since become a cornerstone of military theory and is still widely studied and referenced today. The book is divided into eight chapters, each exploring different aspects of warfare, such as the nature of war, the role of politics in war, and the importance of strategy and tactics. Von Clausewitz argues that war is a complex and dynamic phenomenon, influenced by a variety of factors including politics, ...
Read More
On War is a classic military strategy book written by Prussian general Carl von Clausewitz. First published in 1832, it has since become a cornerstone of military theory and is still widely studied and referenced today. The book is divided into eight chapters, each exploring different aspects of warfare, such as the nature of war, the role of politics in war, and the importance of strategy and tactics. Von Clausewitz argues that war is a complex and dynamic phenomenon, influenced by a variety of factors including politics, economics, and social dynamics. He also emphasizes the importance of understanding the enemy and adapting to changing circumstances on the battlefield. Throughout the book, von Clausewitz uses historical examples to illustrate his points and provide practical insights into military strategy. On War remains a must-read for anyone interested in military history, strategy, or international relations.If, in the next place, we keep once more to the pure conception of War, then we must say that the political object properly lies out of its province, for if War is an act of violence to compel the enemy to fulfil our will, then in every case all depends on our overthrowing the enemy, that is, disarming him, and on that alone.This scarce antiquarian book is a facsimile reprint of the old original and may contain some imperfections such as library marks and notations. Because we believe this work is culturally important, we have made it available as part of our commitment for protecting, preserving, and promoting the world's literature in affordable, high quality, modern editions, that are true to their original work.
Read Less
Add this copy of On War to cart. $73.07, good condition, Sold by Bonita rated 4.0 out of 5 stars, ships from Hialeah, FL, UNITED STATES, published 2010 by Kessinger Publishing.
Add this copy of On War to cart. $74.57, new condition, Sold by Booksplease rated 4.0 out of 5 stars, ships from Southport, MERSEYSIDE, UNITED KINGDOM, published 2010 by Kessinger Publishing.
I think of this as an interesting read in as much that it gets you into the thinking what went into the battles at the time this was written. What strategies were successful for Napoleon for example wouldn't be applicable in a more modern battlefield, but still some nice insights on the basics so to speak. The book itself is just the right size for thumbing through and browsing.
steve15
Aug 12, 2010
Very Interesting with great analysis in foreward
This is a great book and an excellent translation of Clausewitz. I have been reading a different translation that does not serve the reader as well. This edition includes an interesting analysis of Clausewitz' work and assists the reader in understanding what this book is about and provides context.
If you have an interest in strategy, not just military strategy, as well as the decision making process; this is a great book.
OBB
Jan 15, 2009
I might or might not recomend it.
I found it a bit heavy going after The Art of War, and had to put it down and take a rest from it. however it certainly is an enlightening read, and suggests what was wrong with 19/20 century military doctrine. Perhaps it is the particular edition or version and translator. I am currently resting it and am uncertain if I will finish it.
EmmetNZ
Apr 20, 2007
Definative translation
Clausewitz' theories and reputation suffered much in the English speaking world from poor translations until Howard and Paret published this Princeton University Press translation in 1976. For the first time we had a near definative version of the superlative strategist's work. As a bonus, the translation contains four seminal essays; one each from the translators and two from the doyen of post-war strategic studies, Bernard Brodie. Of particular importance is Brodie's guide to reading (and understanding)Clausewitz, an absolute must-have for all practical and armchair straegists. Ignore the awful Anatol Rapoport version of Clausewitz published currently by Penguin and go for this version. The single most important work in military history.