Generalship, Historical Perspectives

Book excerpt: After World War I, J F C Fuller stated that the three pillars of generalship (meaning good generalship of course) are "courage, creative intelligence, and physical fitness: and the attributes of youth rather than middle age." The study of character traits and leadership principles dominated our thought and leadership teaching methodology during and after World War II, with role playing and case studies used extensively. Current leadership doctrine for the entire Army is prescribed in Field Manual 6-22, Army Leadership, a publication that relies heavily on historical examples for its message. Since "the foundations of Army leadership are firmly grounded in history," senior leaders must have a core of historical knowledge to give them the perspective necessary to solve the leadership and command challenges of today.