Subject
Cavalry Books
Best books
Erskine Childers
War and the Arme Blanche
"War and the Arme Blanche" by Erskine Childers is a military treatise written in the early 20th century. The work critically examines the efficacy of traditional cavalry tactics that prioritize the use of cold steel weapons like swords and lances over firearms. Childers argues for a reevaluation of cavalry training and armament, positing that modern conflicts demand a focus on the use of rifles and mounted riflemen in conditions vastly different from those of historical battlefields, particularly drawing from the experiences of the South African War. The opening of the book sets the stage for Childers' argument by contrasting established cavalry doctrine with the realities revealed during recent conflicts. He challenges the romanticized notion of the cavalry charge with the sword, detailing how the advent of modern firearms has fundamentally changed the nature of combat. The author asserts that the reliance on shock tactics not only limits the effectiveness of cavalry units but also overlooks the successful utility of mounted riflemen who are skilled in both mobility and firearms. Childers' thorough dissection of the issues surrounding cavalry tactics, framed by historical analysis and contemporary military needs, positions the book as a significant contribution to discussions on military strategy and training.
Friedrich von Bernhardi
Cavalry in Future Wars
"Cavalry in Future Wars" by Friedrich von Bernhardi is a military treatise written in the early 20th century. The work examines the evolving role and importance of cavalry in modern warfare, particularly in the context of changes in military technology and tactics since the Franco-German War. This publication delves into the strategic and tactical shifts necessary for cavalry units to adapt to the increased firepower and scale of contemporary combat, maintaining that the cavalry’s initial pivotal role is far from obsolete. At the start of the text, the author articulates his belief in the necessity for reforming cavalry strategies to align with modern warfare requirements. He leverages his experiences to underscore the transition from traditional cavalry charges to more complex roles incorporating reconnaissance, mobility, and the effective use of firearms. The opening chapters outline the significant challenges cavalry will face in future conflicts, shaped by improved weaponry and operational strategies, while also emphasizing the need for robust training and organizational reforms to harness the cavalry's potential effectively. The author's insights provide a comprehensive framework for understanding the critical function of cavalry units in the evolving landscape of military engagements.
Friedrich von Bernhardi
Cavalry A Popular Edition of "Cavalry in War and Peace"
"Cavalry" by Friedrich von Bernhardi is a military treatise that provides an analysis of the role and functions of cavalry in modern warfare, probably written in the early 20th century. The text delves into the strategic and tactical applications of cavalry in both offensive and defensive operations, emphasizing its importance in reconnaissance and communication. Through comprehensive discussion, von Bernhardi critiques existing doctrines and suggests necessary reforms to adapt to the evolving battlefield. The opening of this work introduces the author's credentials as a cavalry officer and outlines the increasing significance of cavalry in military operations following advancements in weaponry and tactics. It highlights the major shifts in the cavalry's responsibilities, especially in terms of reconnaissance, where it must now operate with greater independence and adaptability. Von Bernhardi questions preconceived notions about cavalry's role derived from historical conflicts, advocating for a thorough understanding of its evolving function against the realities of contemporary warfare. Overall, this initial segment sets the stage for a detailed exploration of modern cavalry tactics, emphasizing the necessity for an updated doctrine reflective of new military strategies.
Erskine Childers
German Influence on British Cavalry
"German Influence on British Cavalry" by Erskine Childers is a historical account written in the early 20th century. In this work, the author critically examines the impact of German military theories and practices on British cavalry tactics, especially in light of modern warfare developments. The book seeks to contrast the outdated methods still endorsed by some British military leaders with the realities of contemporary combat, emphasizing the need for innovation based on actual war experience rather than rigid adherence to past traditions. The opening of the text introduces the author's motivations, notably responding to contemporary military literature, including General von Bernhardi's works on cavalry theory. Childers articulates his argument against the continued reliance on ancient cavalry weapons like the lance and sword, advocating instead for a modern approach centered around the rifle. He discusses the absence of modern cavalry tactics in British military thinking and aims to awaken critical thought among British officers to reject foreign models and develop a uniquely British cavalry strategy that aligns with current combat conditions. The emphasis is placed on learning from recent conflicts, such as the Boer War, to fundamentally revise cavalry effectiveness and doctrine.
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