In Western Europe and North America the idea that war can deliberately be used as an "instrument of policy" has become unfashionable, not least because of the carnage of two World Wars and the Americans' humiliating experience in Vietnam. But wars are still fought. Those who start wars clearly believe they are worthwhile. Why? In this original study, Brian Bond discusses the successes and failures of military and political leaders in their pursuit of victory over the last two centuries.
Professor Bond argues that in order to be counted victorious, a leader has to progress beyond military...