On War is one of the most important books ever written on the subject
of war. Clausewitz, a Prussian officer who fought against the French
during the Napoleonic Wars, sought to understand and analyze the
phenomenon of war so that future leaders could conduct and win conflicts
more effectively. He studied the human and social factors that affect
outcomes, as well as the tactical and technological ones. He understood
that war was a weapon of government, and that political purpose, chance,
and enmity combine to shape its dynamics.
On War continues to be read by military strategists, politicians, and
others for its timeless insights. This abridged edition by Beatrice
Heuser, using the acclaimed translation by Michael Howard and Peter
Paret, selects the central books in which Clausewitz's views on the
nature and theory of war are developed. Heuser's introduction explains
the originality of Clausewitz's ideas, his education and background, and
summarizes his key theories, while explanatory notes provide further
information on the historical examples Clausewitz cites.
About the Series: For over 100 years Oxford World's Classics has
made available the broadest spectrum of literature from around the
globe. Each affordable volume reflects Oxford's commitment to
scholarship, providing the most accurate text plus a wealth of other
valuable features, including expert introductions by leading
authorities, voluminous notes to clarify the text, up-to-date
bibliographies for further study, and much more.
