The Plans of War: The General Staff and British Military Strategy c. 1900-1916: 13

Description

This book’s contribution to the discussion on the origin’s of the First World War is a pioneering study of both the British General Staff and the evolution of military strategy in the period immediately prior to the war. It describes the development of the General Staff, Britain’s agency for strategic planning, and goes on to give an account of its role in devising strategy. Problems are examined as they arose at grass-roots level in the War Office and progressed upward towards the Cabinet. The complex cross-currents involving the Admiralty, Foreign Office, Treasury and individuals from Edward VII downwards are charted. The account covers British military policy up to 1916, interpreting the Gallipoli campaign and explanation for its failure. Cover Half Title Title Page Copyright Page Original Title Page Original Copyright Page Dedication Table of Contents Foreword Preface Acknowledgments Abbreviations 1 Army and Empire 2 The Triumph of Lord Esher 3 Division and Debate 4 The Machine Constructed 5 The Imperial Design 6 Strategic Reorientation 7 India 8 Egypt 9 France and Germany 10 Democracy at War Bibliography Index