作者: Archibald Forbes

Helmuth Karl Bernhard Graf von Moltke, commonly known as Moltke the Elder (1800–1891), was a distinguished Prussian Field Marshal and a seminal military theorist. He served as the Chief of the General Staff from 1857 to 1888 and is famed for his role in the unification of Germany. Moltke”s strategic genius was displayed during the Franco-Prussian War, with his theories on the decentralization of military command and the use of railways for troop movement shaping modern military tactics. His insights are compiled in his pivotal work, “The Franco-German War of 1870-71” (Grosser Generalstab, 1874-1881), a comprehensive history and analysis of the conflict which solidified his legacy in the military canon. As a master strategist, Moltke”s emphasis on detailed planning, flexibility, and the element of surprise has left an indelible mark on military thought. Scholars often contrast his theories with those of his contemporaries, noting Moltke”s influence on 20th-century military doctrine. His literary contributions offer a lens into the intellectual fabric of 19th-century military leadership, reflecting the rigorous Prussian military tradition and its impact on warfare.