Military strategy

Definition

Military strategy refers to the planning and execution of operations and maneuvers by armed forces to achieve specific objectives during conflict. It involves making decisions about resource allocation, troop movements, and engagement tactics to outmaneuver and defeat an opponent. Successful military strategy considers both the strengths and weaknesses of the forces involved, as well as the geographical and political context of the conflict.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. At Princeton, General Washington used deception and rapid troop movements to surprise British forces, showcasing effective military strategy.
2. During the Battle of Guilford Courthouse, Nathanael Greene's strategy involved engaging the British in a way that inflicted heavy casualties while still allowing for a tactical retreat.
3. The strategy at Yorktown was marked by a coordinated effort between American and French forces to surround British General Cornwallis, leading to his eventual surrender.
4. Military strategies often adapt based on the terrain, weather conditions, and available resources, influencing decisions made by commanders.
5. The use of intelligence and espionage played a crucial role in military strategy during the American Revolution, helping leaders anticipate enemy movements.

Review Questions

• How did Washington's military strategy at Princeton demonstrate effective use of deception and surprise?
  • Washington's military strategy at Princeton was characterized by his ability to deceive British forces through misdirection and rapid movement. After a strategic withdrawal from Trenton, he made it appear as though his army was heading in one direction while actually advancing toward Princeton. This unexpected maneuver allowed his troops to catch the British off guard, leading to a crucial victory that boosted morale and reinvigorated support for the American cause.
• What was Nathanael Greene's approach to military strategy at Guilford Courthouse, and how did it reflect broader principles of warfare?
  • Nathanael Greene’s approach at Guilford Courthouse involved using his forces to engage the British in a manner that maximized damage while minimizing risk. By adopting a strategy that included strategically placed defensive positions and an orderly retreat, Greene inflicted significant casualties on Cornwallis's troops. This reflects broader principles of warfare where achieving tactical victories can lead to strategic gains without necessarily winning every battle.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of the combined American and French military strategy at Yorktown and its significance in the overall context of the American Revolution.
  • The combined American and French military strategy at Yorktown proved highly effective as it utilized coordinated attacks and siege tactics to surround British General Cornwallis. The integration of French naval support cut off escape routes while American ground forces engaged in a systematic siege. This decisive victory not only marked a turning point in the American Revolution but also demonstrated the importance of alliances and joint strategies in achieving significant military objectives against a common foe.

Related terms

Tactics: The specific actions and maneuvers employed by military units in battle to achieve short-term goals.

Logistics: The planning and execution of the movement and support of forces, including the supply of equipment, ammunition, and provisions.

Command Structure: The hierarchy of authority in a military organization that determines how decisions are made and how orders are issued.