Supreme Leadership in Modern War: Civil-Military Relations During Competition and War

This edited volume explores civil-military relations before and during great power conflicts, using historical case studies to provide insights into what worked and what failed. It aims to guide future civil-military relationships in the face of global challenges and emphasizes the relevance of history in understanding these relationships. The book is of interest to students, scholars, and policymakers.

Format: Hardback
Length: 322 pages
Publication date: 26 October 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This edited volume delves into the intricate dynamics of civil-military relations preceding and during major power conflicts, presenting a comprehensive collection of historical case studies on modern supreme leadership. Its primary objective is to offer valuable insights for the future by examining the successes and failures of civil-military relationships that guided great powers during the last era of rapid global change. While future civil-military interactions will undoubtedly be shaped by the unique challenges of the current global environment, it is essential to acknowledge that the past remains a valuable source of knowledge and lessons. Thus, the book highlights timeless concepts that underpin all civil-military relationships, awaiting the exploration and application by historians trained to uncover and communicate them to those who can immediately benefit from them.

Throughout each chapter, this volume underscores the relevance of history, highlighting parallels between the challenges faced by societies in the past and the issues we confront today. The world is entering a period of immense complexity, with numerous challenges requiring nations, particularly the most powerful, to establish robust civil-military relationships capable of navigating treacherous waters without repeating the calamities of the past century.

Each chapter of the book focuses on a specific civil-military relationship, tracing its development before and during a major war. The editors have assembled a team of esteemed experts on each historical period to provide concise yet comprehensive essays that delve into the intricacies of each relationship. This book appeals to a wide audience, including students of military and strategic studies, military history, international relations, professional military colleges, and policymakers.

By examining the past, this volume provides valuable insights into the dynamics of civil-military relations and offers practical lessons for building strong and effective partnerships in the future. It serves as a valuable resource for scholars, practitioners, and policymakers seeking to navigate the complex terrain of modern geopolitics and ensure that the lessons of history are not forgotten in the pursuit of national security and stability.

Weight: 770g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032451541