A Treatise on the Tactical Use of the Three Arms: Infantry, Artillery, and Cavalry

by Francis J. (Francis James) Lippitt

"A Treatise on the Tactical Use of the Three Arms: Infantry, Artillery, and Cavalry" by Francis J. Lippitt is a military treatise written in the mid-19th century. The book serves as a comprehensive guide to the tactical deployment and effectiveness of the primary branches of military forces—infantry, artillery, and cavalry—during combat. Lippitt, drawing from his experience as an ex-colonel in the California Volunteers, offers detailed advice on strategy, formations, and the interplay of these arms during battle. The opening of the treatise establishes the foundational concept that a successful military force relies on the combined use of infantry, artillery, and cavalry, and highlights the importance of understanding each arm's independent tactics before mastering their collective application. Lippitt outlines the structure of the discussion, beginning with the tactical use of infantry, emphasizing key elements such as formations for attack, strategies for effectively using bayonet charges, and the critical role of artillery fire in preparing for assaults. He critiques common practices from previous conflicts, arguing for more informed and strategic approaches to warfare based on the experiences of the recent Civil War. This early section sets the tone for a methodical examination of military tactics that focuses on efficiency, effectiveness, and minimized losses in battle.