Helmuth von Moltke the Elder quotes

Helmuth von Moltke the Elder was a distinguished Prussian field marshal and military strategist. He played a pivotal role in modernizing the Prussian army and achieving key victories in the wars of German unification. He is remembered as one of the greatest military leaders of the 19th century. Here are 6 of his quotes:

The Jews form a state, and, obeying their own laws, they evade those of their host country. The Jews always consider an oath regarding a Christian not binding. During the Campaign of 1812 the Jews were spies, they were paid by both sides, they betrayed both sides.

Helmuth von Moltke the Elder

The tactical result of an engagement forms the base for new strategic decisions because victory or defeat in a battle changes the situation to such a degree that no human acumen is able to see beyond the first battle.

Helmuth von Moltke the Elder

Strategy is a system of expedients; it is more than a mere scholarly discipline.

Helmuth von Moltke the Elder

The tactical result of an engagement forms the base for new strategic decisions because victory or defeat in a battle changes the situation to such a degree that no human acumen is able to see beyond the first battle. In this sense one should understand Napoleon's saying: "I have never had a plan of operations." Therefore no plan of operations extends with any certainty beyond the first contact with the main hostile force.

Helmuth von Moltke the Elder

If in war, from the beginning of the operations, everything is uncertain except such will and energy as the commander carries in himself, there cannot possibly be practical value for strategy in general principles, rules derived from them and systems built up upon the rules. ... Strategy is a system of expedients. It is more than science, it is the translation of science into practical life, the development of an original leading thought in accordance with the ever-changing circumstances.

Helmuth von Moltke the Elder