Counter-Revolutionary Warfare: An American Appraisal,

Abstract

Revolutionary Warfare, Vintage 1970, pays homage to Maxist-Leninist tradition, but otherwise little resembles the movement visualized by the 'old masters'. Wars fought in the Chinese orbit will continue to follow the orthodox pattern of revolutionary war. Urban warfare, however, the operations with vague military objectives, such as that launched by the Palestinian guerrillas, will conform decreasingly to the traditional concept of insurrection. In the later case, objectives will often be chosen on emotional grounds. The radical views a government's response to his provocation as potentially his most effective weapon and the counterinsurgent must tailor his actions accordingly. Undisguised or undisciplined use of force can quickly produce an adverse reaction alienating the uncommitted popular mass. Methods employed must be effective and democratic, a combination difficult to perfect. Tomorrow's battle will be shaped by a 'revolutionary situation' and at the end of the day, victory will belong to the contender best able to control the resulting turmoil.

Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Oct 01, 1970
Accession Number
AD0725707

Entities

People

  • Jon M. Samuels

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Weapons Technologies

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Insurgency
  • Side Effects
  • Terrorists
  • Urban Warfare
  • Warfare

Readers

  • Military History of the United States in the 20th Century.
  • Political Violence and Terrorism Studies.
  • Strategic Security Studies

Technology Areas

  • Space