THE FOUNDATION OF MILITARY HISTORY

The Foundation Of Military History



The Foundation Of Military History

Compare and contrast two efforts by the U.S. military to transform. Your analysis will identify two or three key factors that led to the perceived or actual need to transform, two or three key policies enacted to effect the desired transformation, the leading forces that shaped policies pursued in order to achieve the transformation, and an assessment as to how well the military organization under investigation achieved its desired end state. In your conclusion, synthesize the insights gained from your study that Soldiers can apply as they prepare for the challenges that lie ahead.

I. Introduction/Overview

As the United States enters a new century, its army confronts the difficult problems associated with transformation in an uncertain world. Moreover, the strategic environment makes it entirely unclear where, or when, or for what strategic purposes U.S. ground forces will find themselves committed to battle in coming decades. (Wentz 1997)

Yet, both the strategic environment as well as the harsh lessons of the past have a direct bearing on why the Army has begun the processes of transformation.

The study of the past cannot lead to prediction as to the nature and conduct of war in the 21st century, but it does underline that sometime in the future the Army will find itself committed to a major conflict. Moreover, the nature of the current strategic environment suggests the parameters within which the future Army will have to operate. Finally, history is crucial to understanding what factors and approaches might best prepare the Army to meet future threats.

The Continental Congress in 1775 created the Continental Army and named General George Washington its commander. He used that army along with state militia forces --and the French army and navy--to defeat the British. The new Constitution in 1788 made the president the commander in chief, with authority for the Congress to levy taxes, and make the rules. (Baumann 2004)

II. The Small Wars experience 1898-1940

By the mid-1890s the United States had completed its continental expansion, had emerged as the world's foremost industrial power, and stood postured to play a more active role in world affairs. When, in 1898, the country declared war on Spain, the decision inaugurated a new era in American history. From that point down to the present day, US land forces would be engaged overseas on a continuous basis. (Swain 2003)

In postwar Cuba, Washington imposed a military government that sought to clean up the country and refashion its political, economic, social, and military institutions in America's image. One of the key figures in this effort was Major General Leonard Wood, who served as a military governor, first over Cuba's Santiago Province and later over the whole island. In this capacity, he initiated public works, health, and sanitation programs, replaced the Spanish education system with one based on US models, reformed penal, legal, and judicial procedures, organized and trained a national military, set up civil administration throughout the island, and helped the Cubans form political parties, ...