Napoleon On the Art of War
Napoleon Bonaparte not only dominated Europe militarily for 20 years in the early 19th century but his concept of war and its right conduct has fascinated historians and guided military leaders for almost 200 years. Noted military historian Luvaas now presents a succinct volume of Napoleon's thoughts on the art of war as seen by the greatest soldier of his era. Luvaas has worked on this book for 30 years, translating and editing the 32 volumes of Napoleon's own writings and correspondence and offering in essay form the key elements of Napoleon's wisdom on war. Subjects include tactics, operational art, strategy, logistics, training, diplomacy, intelligence, leadership, combined arms, morale, and discipline. The best chapters are Napoleon's analysis of the "Great Captains" (Alexander, Caesar, Gustavus Adolphus, Frederick the Great) and his candid evaluations of his own French generals' strengths and weaknesses. This is a short, clear, and very readable treatise on the art of war, a much better product than 1998's dismal pretender, Napoleon: How To Make War by Yann Cloarec (Ediciones La Calavera). Luvaas's book is recommended for public, academic, and military libraries.ACol. William D. Bushnell, USMC (ret.), Brunswick, MECopyright 1999 Reed Business Information, Inc.--This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.