Small Wars Manual

by U.S. Marine Corps

Originally published in 1940 by the U.S. Marine Corps, this book examines the practical and philosophical aspects of low-intensity conflicts, which were then referred to as ‘Small Wars.’ This is one of the best books on military peacekeeping and counterinsurgency operations published before World War II. As an historical artifact, it offers insight to a rarely seen and often overlooked period in American history. Topics include strategy, psychology, dealings with foreign civilians, as well as implementation of a democratically-elected government. A great addition to the library of any historian, military man or concerned citizen!

Genres: Military Fiction, War, History, Nonfiction, Military History, Reference

568 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1940

About the author

The U.S. Marine Corps is a branch of the United States Armed Forces responsible for providing power projection from the sea, using the mobility of the United States Navy to deliver combined-arms task forces rapidly. It is one of seven uniformed services of the United States. In the civilian leadership structure of the United States military, the Marine Corps is a component of the United States Department of the Navy, often working closely with U.S. naval forces for training, transportation, and logistic purposes; however, in the military leadership structure the Marine Corps is a separate branch.

Reviews

[Fredrick Danysh · Rating 3 out of 5]

During the first half of the twentith century, The United States Marine Corps was involved in many small wars and police actions. This is a reprint of the 1940 Marine Corps manual on planning and conducting the wars. It includes all phases including strategy, tactics, and logistics as well as post action conduct. Much is still pertinent today.

[Al · Rating 3 out of 5]

It's interesting how this was re-discovered during the current COIN fight. Unfortunately, it seems to be one of those books that everyone talks about, but nobody reads. I'm not a Disciple of the current COIN theories, especially as it seems we are not committed to the strategy. However, this manual has a lot to teach us in dealing with the COE. Allowing the Taliban a) a readily available sanctuary, and b) a readily identifiably corrupt target (Afghan govt.) already violates some of the fundamentals found in this manual.

[Stephen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Classic text on military intervention. Large parts are outdated, but still make for interesting reading (e.g. care and feeding of mule trains).