On War

"War is the continuation of politics by other means." 


On War is the most significant attempt in Western history to understand war, both in its internal dynamics and as an instrument of policy. Since the work's first appearance in 1832, it has been read throughout the world, and has stimulated generations of soldiers, statesmen, and intellectuals. 


Clausewitz based his study on his observations and his own experience in the French Revolution and the Napoleonic Wars. He also included examples of those wars and others to support his assertions. His profound theoretical explorations of strategy changed the shape of modern warfare. 


Two centuries later, On War remains both controversial and an influence on strategic thinking. 


*Includes image gallery.