Adm. Joseph Mason Reeves (1872-1948) took command of the U.S. Navy's nascent carrier arm during a critical period, transforming it from a small auxiliary command in support of the battle line into a powerful strike force. Until the carrier commanders of World War II proved their mettle, Reeves's expertise in the use of the aircraft carrier in naval tactics was unequalled. ALL THE FACTORS OF VICTORY is the first full-length biography of this eminent naval officer.
What are the independent variables that determine success in war? Drawing on 40 years of studying and teaching war, political scientist Christian P. Potholm presents a 'template of Mars, ' seven variables that have served as predictors of military success over time and across cultures. In Winning at War, Potholm explains these variables--technology, sustained ruthlessness, discipline, receptivity to innovation, protection of military capital from civilians and rulers, will, and the belief that there will always be another war--and provides case studies of their implementation, from ancient battles to today.
America’s First Aircraft Carrier tells the remarkable story of the USS Langley. The narrative provides an in-depth discussion of the ship’s origins as the collier USS Jupiter, which was built with a “first of” propulsion system that has been adapted for use in present-day Ford-class carriers. Author David F. Winkler considers the post–World War I debate for procuring carriers, the decision to convert Jupiter, and the identification of constructor Clayton Simmers as the father of the American aircraft carrier. The evolution of the Langley as an experimental ship was tied to the introduction of new doctrine for the United States. Promoting an independent naval air arm against Brig. Gen. Billy Mitchell’s vision of an independent air force, the U.S. Navy saw Langley as an operational aircraft carrier that would change the way the Navy fought wars at sea. While the story of Langley is that of the origins of naval air combat, it is also a record of the vessel’s service in World War II until the ship’s final posting to the Asiatic Fleet, where she met her demise on February 27, 1942, off the southern coast of Java. Many of the U.S. Navy’s pioneering naval aviators are closely associated with this ship, including Kenneth Whiting, John H. Towers, Godfrey DeCourcelles Chevalier, Virgil C. Griffith, Mel Pride, Patrick N. L. Bellinger, Joseph M. Reeves, Gerald Bogan, Aubrey Fitch, Felix Stump, Ernest J. King, Warren G. Child, Dan Gallery, and Frank D. Wagner. A number of these individuals would go on to play critical roles during World War II. Langley’s story is their story. Aircraft carriers remain the centerpiece of American sea power projection. America’s First Aircraft Carrier provides the context on how CV 1, the “Covered Wagon,” and carrier development and utilization came to be.
An examination of approaches to counterinsurgency from 30 recent resolved campaigns reveals that good COIN practices tend to "run in packs" and that the balance of selected good and bad practices perfectly predicts the outcome of a conflict.
"The Way to Win" by means of William Le Queux is an interesting and suspenseful novel that unfolds inside the realms of mystery and espionage. William Le Queux, a prolific British author of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, weaves a tale that engages readers with elaborate plots, clandestine sports, and surprising twists. Known for his knowledge in crafting gripping narratives in the espionage genre, Le Queux delivers a riveting story that maintains readers on the brink of their seats. Set towards a backdrop of political intrigue and international espionage, "The Way to Win" showcases Le Queux's mastery in developing complicated characters and intricate plots. The narrative is often driven through a sense of urgency, as protagonists navigate a global filled with secrets and techniques, conspiracies, and high-stakes maneuvers. Le Queux's writing fashion captivates readers with its atmospheric settings and bright descriptions, immersing them in a global of suspense and thriller. "The Way to Win" is a testament to William Le Queux's legacy as a professional storyteller inside the realm of espionage fiction, imparting readers a mesmerizing journey into the clandestine and exciting aspects of global intrigue.
The seemingly endless wars in Iraq and Afghanistan have renewed the age-old debate over what constitutes military victory. Will the withdrawal of troops from Iraq and Afghanistan be seen as a sign of victory or defeat? Although the nature of warfare has changed dramatically since Clausewitz's On War was first written, this selection from his classic work remains an invaluable source of insight for understanding what it means to achieve victory in war and how to recognize defeat. Princeton Shorts are brief selections excerpted from influential Princeton University Press publications produced exclusively in eBook format. They are selected with the firm belief that while the original work remains an important and enduring product, sometimes we can all benefit from a quick take on a topic worthy of a longer book. In a world where every second counts, how better to stay up-to speed on current events and digest the kernels of wisdom found in the great works of the past? Princeton Shorts enables you to be an instant expert in a world where information is everywhere but quality is at a premium. On Victory and Defeat does just that.
The Art of War is almost certainly the most famous study of strategy ever written and has had an extraordinary influence on the history of warfare. The principles Sun-tzu expounded were utilized brilliantly by such great Asian war leaders as Mao Tse-tung.
From Simon & Schuster, War, Peace, and Victory is Colin S. Gray's exploration of strategy and statecraft for the next century. In War, Peace, and Victory Colin S. Gray shows how geography, technology, history and national culture shape government policy, and explains how nations pursue their strategic interests in times of peace.
