Spenser Wilkinson
The Brain of an Army: A Popular Account of the German General Staff
"The Brain of an Army: A Popular Account of the German General Staff" by Spenser Wilkinson is a historical account written in the late 19th century. The work aims to provide a concise understanding of the Prussian general staff system, particularly its significant role during military campaigns such as those of 1866 and 1870. It explores the organizational structure and strategic capabilities that contributed to Prussia's military successes, making it a comparative study that holds relevance for military theory and practice. At the start of the text, the author provides context for the necessity of the general staff after a Royal Commission's inquiries into national defense. He emphasizes the need for a well-structured command system, using the Prussian army as a case study. Key figures, such as King William of Prussia and his chief of staff, Count von Moltke, are introduced as pivotal in orchestrating military decisions. The opening portion details the complexities of the political and military landscape before the battle of Königgrätz, illustrating how thorough planning and effective communication among the general staff allowed the Prussian forces to respond dynamically to enemy positions, ultimately securing a decisive victory.