George Washington Classical Sun Tzu Strategist And

George Washington: Classical Sun Tzu Strategist And Master In The Art Of War Essay, Research Paper

The American defeat of the British during the Revolutionary War was a direct result of George Washington’s incredible leadership and generalship which epitomized the greatness of Sun Tzu’s “Art of War”

Introduction

The key to the success of the American Revolution was the George Washington himself. Faced with a near impossible task of defeating a tremendously powerful enemy, Washington was required to defy the odds. So how does Washington’s accomplishment of this task relate to Sun Tzu and his teachings of “The Art of War”. There crucial points come to light: (1) Washington’s selection as to command the Continental Army and inherent command capabilities, (2) Washington’s strategy for winning the war against the Empire of Great Britain, (3) The art of maneuver that eventually lead to the critical defeat of Cornwallis and the British at Yorktown.

Washington as a Commander

Washington’s selection to be the leader of the Continental Army was the wisest choice that the newly formed Continental Congress could have made. Washington’s selection as Commander of the Continental Army did more to win the Revolutionary war than any other decision made during the conflict. His personal character epitomizes perfectly the five traits required in a successful general: wisdom, sincerity, humanity, courage, and strictness. (Sun Tzu p. 65) These five crucial traits will become apparent and Washington’s strategy to win the War of Independence is elaborated on further

Washington was the embodiment of everything fine in the American character. He had no delusions of grandeur and was second only to Benjamin Franklin as a diplomat with the French. In caring for his troops and their families he would spend his own money to help them. Washington brought more than just military ability and statesmanship to the Revolution he brought character. General Washington was respected not just by the rank and file, but also by people in all parts of the colonies. Although he did not inspire his men to fanatical loyalty as Napoleon or Nelson, the troops under his command knew they could count upon his valor, military judgment, and fair justice always. (Morison, p. 314-5) Everyone, from the highest gentleman in Congress to the lowest private in the Army, could depend on George Washington’s character at all times.

Strategy to Win the War

Washington’s reevaluation of the situation after the failure in New York was the strategy he should have adopted from the start of the war. His knowledge of war fighting was learned by direct observation and experience. In this, he realized to win he must more that all else, preserve the integrity of the Continental Army. “Washington concluded that if the army could be kept alive, the Revolutionary cause would remain alive.” (Weigley, p. 12) In gaining this insight, Washington set about on a new course to victory in that the “Art of War” is demonstrated.

Washington first plans for a strategic defensive, thereby preserving his army. He avoids battle whenever possible and continues to draw the British into a prolonged war of attrition. It is this continuous maneuvering that gives Washington control of the flow of the War. For no matter where the British Army strikes, or what city they may take, or what battle they may win, the Continental Army under Washington’s astute leadership perseveres.

Next Washington had to attrite or erode the British resolve. Not only take away the British Army’s will to fight, but take away the people of England’s support for the war as well. “For there has never been a protracted war from which a country had benefited.” (Sun Tzu, p. 73) In drawing out the war, Washington strategy of attrition attacks the very heart of the British strategy for a swift end to the colonial revolt. Since the British are still at war with France, the drain on resources abroad in the colonies weakens British strength in defense of England. “…what is of supreme importance in war is to attack the enemy’s strategy;” (Sun Tzu, p77)

Washington avoided confrontations with the strong British Army whenever possible and only strikes at parts of the British Army, never the entire force. By fighting and winning small battles Washington builds credibility in the Continental Army while continuously harassing and tiring the British Army. Through “skirmish” warfare continues to harass and dog the British forces, especially their lines of supply and communication. “He who knows when he can fight and when he cannot will be victorious.” (Sun Tzu, p.82)

In a daring move Washington made and unorthodox winter strike against Trenton. It is here more than anywhere else that Washington’s true courage comes to light. With the Continental Army falling apart around him, and badly needing to restore morale and raise recruitment, Washington boldly mounts an attack on Christmas Day 1776, crossing the Delaware River from Valley Forge to strike Trenton. Washington defeated the Hessian outpost and boldly reversed the momentum of the war. (2Weigley, p. 39-40)

Washington’s victories at Trenton and Princeton established the credibility of the Continental Army as a force to be reckoned with and demonstrated his capability of unconventional and unexpected actions. Washington’s leadership and generalship are vali