Carl von Clausewitz (June 1, 1780 – November 16, 1831) was a Prussian general who fought in the Napoleonic Wars. He is one of the most renowned and cited military theorists in history, known for many clever aphorisms. He served in the Prussian army for most of his life and is most known for his world famous treatise entitled “Vom Kriege” (“On War”), written subsequent to his experiences in the Napoleonic Wars. “On War” discusses many key military and political concepts (not all original to Clausewitz), including simplicity, the fog of war, centers of gravity, balance of power, military genius, strategy vs. tactics, the importance of defense, and exploiting asymmetries.
Clausewitz stresses the value and importance of adaptability due to the unpredictable and multidimensional nature of warfare. His writings emphasize the philosophy of war and power. Clausewitz’s insights have shaped political and military thinking and discourse over the past 300 years. Military, political, and business leaders continue to cite Clausewitz, interpreting and applying his concepts to their own particular circumstances. Clausewitz’s work is comparable to Sun Tzu and Niccolo Machiavelli in terms of influence and importance.
Carl von Clausewitz Quotes
“The enemy of a good plan is the dream of a perfect plan.”
“War is nothing but a continuation of politics with the admixture of other means.”
“There are cases in which the greatest daring is the greatest wisdom.”
“If the leader is filled with high ambition and if he pursues his aims with audacity and strength of will, he will reach them in spite of all obstacles.”
“If we read history with an open mind, we cannot fail to conclude that, among all the military virtues, the energetic conduct of war has always contributed most to glory and success.”
“Pursue one great decisive aim with force and determination.”
“Although the concept of defense is parrying a blow and its characteristic feature is awaiting the blow, “if we are really waging war, we must return the enemy’s blows. . . . Thus a defensive campaign can be fought with offensive battles. . . “The defensive form of war is not a simple shield, but a shield made up of well-directed blows.”
Carl von Clausewitz Books
“On War” – by Carl von Clausewitz
“Strategy Classics Collection, Volume I: Sun Tzu’s The Art of War, Caesar’s Commentaries on the Civil War, Napoleon’s Maxims of War, Clausewitz’s On War” – by the men mentioned
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