American Strategy in World War II: A Reconsideration

by Kent Roberts Greenfield

Written by an eminent military historian, American Strategy in World War II explores this fascinating subject with rare perception and depth. Attention is focused on grand strategy, focused at the highest level of outlook and decision. Starting with a reminder of some of the major strategic decisions made by the Allies, the book discusses how the British and Americans were able to use common sense and an overwhelming desire to maintain their common alliance to resolve their strategic differences. A study of Mr. Roosevelt as Commander-in-Chief follows and the question of his influence on the military conduct of the war is considered. The book concludes with an incisive look at how our fledgling air force acquired the necessary power needed to make decisive contributions to victory.

Genres: World War II, Military History

145 pages, Paperback

First published May 1, 1958

About the author

(1893–1967)

Reviews

[Al · Rating 4 out of 5]

An outstanding, brief look at U.S. strategy in the context of coalition warfighting. The writer was one of the historians who worked on the Army Green Books. I thought the section on strategic bombing was fascinating, as the switch in targeting to aircraft production and petroleum was essential for air superiority and allowed for unrestricted support beginning with Overlord. This also made the section on air-ground cooperation especially pertinent. This should not be a stand-alone read, but should be read concurrently with a strategic or operational history of WW II.

[Christopher · Rating 3 out of 5]

Excellent discussion of Allied strategy - critical discussion focuses on how national perspectives shaped the ways and means. Well worth reading the 120 pages.

[John Lomnicki, · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brief, but an excellent summary of US WW2 strategy. I garnered unique insight from his discussion on the role of the Army Air Force.

[Paulo · Rating 4 out of 5]

A great outline of American strategy during World War II, including political and logistic aspects and the complex and sometimes tense interplay between America and its allies throughout the single most important geopolitical event of the 20th century.

The author provides a brief but thorough outline of Roosevelt’s leadership style (“As a a pig-headed Dutchman I…”) and recounts the rise of the US Air Force from an Army Corps to a full-fledged force capable of conducting strategic campaigns and the first combined arms operations. All in all great work for such a small volume.