Roots of Strategy: Book 4 - 4 Military Classics

by David Jablonsky

Selections from four legends in maritime and air strategy: Mahan, Corbett, Douhet and Mitchell Introduction by noted military strategist and author David Jablonsky David Jablonsky has compiled the best writings of four of the most influential theorists of naval and air power in the past century. Alfred Thayer Mahan's Influence of Sea Power Upon History, Julian Corbett's Some Principles of Maritime Strategy, Guilio Douhet's Command of the Air, and William "Billy" Mitchell's Winged Defense continue to have relevance for students and practitioners of naval and air strategy. They illustrate the continuity of strategic thought, even through current times of great and widespread change.

Genres: History, Military History

Paperback

First published August 1, 1999

Reviews

[Matthew Sanchez]

Modern Enough

Sun Tzu and his contemporaries get most of the praise in their “Art of War”, but their writing is often esoteric and misunderstood. The writers in this book show, despite some of their outlandish ideas, thoughts on navies and air forces that are more practically outlined to the reader.

[Dave Beeman]

Another excellent book in the series of Roots of Strategy. Helpful introductions by the editor to each author helped in understanding of the authors.

[Ian Fleischmann]

Helpful as an introduction but, like other Roots of Strategy books, requires an analysis of the source materials for true synthesis. I find Mahan's analysis of the factors influencing seapower to be self-fulfilling and of limited strategic effect. Granted, I didn't bother reading the other 500 pages of 18th century naval warfare history. Airpower theory has evolved greatly since Douhet and Mitchell.