Ethical Underpinning of Certain Strategic Leaders: 1861-1865
Abstract
This study examines four Civil War leaders in order to identify the key and essential elements that combine and define the ethical framework of effective strategic leaders. In addition the project determines the impact of religion in their formation. A Biblical based ethical framework is offered as the start point from which to examine the ethical codes embraced by four senior military leaders of the American Civil War. The top two commanders of the North and South, Generals Grant and Lee, along with their right-hand men, Generals Sherman and Jackson, are studied to gain insight into the principles or reasons that guided their conduct and determination of right and wrong, good and bad. The study examines their lives, decisions, and writings during the Civil War to discover the basis for their personal ethical codes. When a Biblical basis is not apparent alternative underpinnings are suggested and examined. An ethical base is the cornerstone of the military because it governs the support and resources that our citizens are willing to entrust to it. In times of danger, it is the ethical element of leadership that will bond units together and enable them to withstand the stresses of combat. Strong ethical codes formed from absolute values are key to effective military leadership. All leaders must be committed to embrace ethical principles derived from these values.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 15, 1993
- Accession Number
- ADA263946
Entities
People
- Thoams J. Hodgini
Organizations
- United States Army War College