Operational Art in the Spanish American War: An Analysis of the American Way of War in a Major Regional Contingency
Abstract
This study examines the application of operational art during the conduct of the Spanish-American War. The evolution of the 'American Way of War' appears to follow a direct path from the concluding campaigns of the Civil War, through the two World Wars, to the present while being modified by the influences of changing technology. Through examination of the development of national objectives and the supporting military strategy, this study analyzes the linkage of strategic objectives with the tactical events which occur on the battlefield. Progressing from the conduct of the Spanish-American War, this monograph offers a comparison between the development of operational art, as practiced by the two armed services of the United States. The Study concludes with an assessment of the relative effectiveness achieved by the U.S. Army and U.S. Navy in reaching the strategic objectives defined by the McKinley administration. Included in the analysis of each service's operational success is an examination of measures used to institutionalize the intellectual component of operational art. The implications of this study are particularly relevant today, as the U.S. Army attempts to balance the potential demands of contingency operations, while fulfilling non-traditional roles.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 27, 1994
- Accession Number
- ADA284477
Entities
People
- Russel D. Santala
Organizations
- United States Army Command and General Staff College