On War (Michael Howard and Peter Paret translation)

On War is one of the classic theoretical works on the nature of war, and arguably the greatest. Clausewitz, a Prussian general of the Napoleonic Wars era, sought to understand both the internal dynamics of his calling and the function of war as an instrument of policy. Clausewitz also established the critical concepts of friction and chance and their limiting effects on command. On War is essential reading for officers desiring high command. It should not be read in a single sitting but thoughtfully considered over the course of a career.

There are various editions of Clausewitz available, the best and most highly regarded of these is the version edited and translated by Michael Howard, Peter Paret and Bernard Brodie (2nd edition, Princeton University Press, Princeton, 1984). Those with an interest in the development of his ideas should consult Carl von Clausewitz, Historical and Political Writings, edited and translated by Peter Paret and Daniel Moran (Princeton University Press, Princeton, 1992). The literature on Clausewitz and his military thought is vast; the most accessible recent guide is Hew Strachan, Clausewitz’s On War: A Biography.