Wargaming-Logistics of the American Civil War: Western Theater-1862

Abstract

This thesis and wargame addresses the strategic and operational aspects, and importance concerning logistics during the American Civil War by focusing on the Western Theater of 1862. Through the use of a qualitative discussion format, logistics and resources are highlighted through several characteristics such as the significance of railroads, rivers, and roads to transport troops and supplies, supply production, troop recruitment, value of proper planning and execution of supplies, and contracting services. Although the thesis and subsequent wargame are modeled from events that took place over a hundred years ago, the value of understanding the significance of logistics during war transcends to our current operating environment. The Time, Space, Assets, and Resolution (TSAR) model was used to capture the essential elements that make up a wargame. Furthermore, extensive research using numerous publications and playing classic and modern wargames was conducted to ensure historical elements and suitable mechanics were developed to ensure the intent of the educational outcome of the wargame was at the forefront of the project.

Open PDF

Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Jun 15, 2018
Accession Number
AD1084486

Entities

People

  • Raymond P. Phillips

Organizations

  • United States Army Command and General Staff College

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Biomedical
  • Energy and Power Technologies
  • Human Systems
  • Weapons Technologies

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • American Revolution
  • Civil War
  • Civil War (United States)
  • Doctrine
  • Education
  • Governments
  • Land Transportation
  • Logistics
  • Military History
  • Military Operations
  • New York
  • Railroads
  • Ships
  • Transportation
  • United States
  • War
  • Warfare

Readers

  • Game Theory.
  • Maritime Combat Support and Expeditionary Logistics.
  • Strategic Security Studies

Technology Areas

  • Space