This Illustrated Edition Reveals the Fascinating History of the German General Staff from 1657 to 1945!

The Evolution and Impact of the German General Staff over Four Centuries

The Origins of the German General Staff

The German General Staff, also known as the Großer Generalstab, originated in the late 17th century as a formal body within the Prussian army. Its purpose was to advise the commander-in-chief and ensure effective coordination and planning in military operations. The General Staff quickly became renowned for its strategic thinking and meticulous planning, shaping the future of German military tactics.

The Influence of Friedrich Wilhelm I

Under the leadership of Frederick William I, King of Prussia from 1713 to 1740, the German General Staff gained significant prominence. His emphasis on military discipline and the development of a strong standing army laid the groundwork for the future success of the General Staff. The inclusion of talented officers, such as Franz Wilhelm von Seydlitz and Hans Joachim von Zieten, further solidified the General Staff's reputation.

History Of The German General Staff 1657-1945 [Illustrated Edition]

by Thomas Paine (Kindle Edition)

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	46875 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	1037 pages

FREE

The Napoleonic Wars and the General Staff's Role

The French revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars brought the German General Staff into the international spotlight. During these conflicts, the Prussian army suffered several defeats, leading to the restructuring of the General Staff and the adoption of new tactics. Figures like Gerhard von Scharnhorst and August Neidhardt von Gneisenau introduced key reforms that modernized the General Staff and paved the way for future successes.

The Influence of Moltke the Elder

Arguably one of the most influential figures in the history of the German General Staff, Helmuth von Moltke the Elder served as its Chief of Staff from 1857 to 1888. His strategic genius and organizational skills revolutionized warfare tactics. Moltke's approach to military planning played a vital role in Prussia's victory in the Austro-Prussian War, the Franco-Prussian War, and the subsequent formation of a united German Empire.

The General Staff in World War I

World War I presented new challenges and opportunities for the German General Staff. The war required extensive planning, coordination, and adaptation to the modern battlefield. The General Staff played a crucial role in the initial German offensive, the development of trench warfare tactics, and the coordination of large-scale operations. The war's outcome had a profound impact on the General Staff and shaped its future.

The Weimar Republic and the General Staff's Dissolution

Following Germany's defeat in World War I, the Treaty of Versailles imposed severe limitations on the German military. As a result, the General Staff was officially disbanded. However, it didn't mean the end of the General Staff's impact. Many officers retained their expertise and played significant roles in the subsequent development of the Nazi regime.

The General Staff under the Third Reich

During the Nazi era, the General Staff underwent further transformation. Hitler relied heavily on the General Staff's expertise but also sought to consolidate power and control. Figures like Wilhelm Keitel and Alfred Jodl occupied influential positions within the Nazi leadership and had a considerable say in military decisions. The General Staff's role during World War II and its involvement in the Holocaust continues to be studied and debated to this day.

The Dissolution of the General Staff and Its Legacy

After Germany's surrender in 1945, the Allied powers officially dissolved the General Staff. Its dissolution marked a turning point in German military history. However, the General Staff's legacy continues to influence military thinking worldwide. Its strategic planning methodologies, tactical innovations, and emphasis on coordination and efficiency shaped modern military practices.

Unlock the Hidden Secrets of the German General Staff's History with This Illustrated Edition!

If you're fascinated by military history or want to understand the evolution and impact of the German General Staff, this illustrated edition is a must-have. This comprehensive book brings the General Staff's four centuries of history to life, featuring insightful narratives, rare photographs, and detailed illustrations that enhance your understanding of this influential institution.

Immerse yourself in the compelling stories of legendary figures like Moltke the Elder, and gain a deeper appreciation of the General Staff's enduring legacy. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a military professional, or simply curious about this pivotal institution, this illustrated edition is sure to captivate and enlighten you.

Don't miss out on this unique opportunity to delve into the rich and complex history of the German General Staff. Order your copy today and embark on a journey of discovery!

History Of The German General Staff 1657-1945 [Illustrated Edition]

by Thomas Paine (Kindle Edition)

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	46875 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	1037 pages

FREE

Includes more than twenty portraits and the World War Two On The Eastern Front (1941-1945) Illustration Pack – 198 photos/illustrations and 46 maps.

The HISTORY OF THE GERMAN GENERAL STAFF is the first comprehensive history of the Prussian and later German General Staff from its earliest beginnings in the Thirty Years’ War to the German unconditional surrender in 1945. With the dawn of the industrial age, war was taken out of the hands of monarchs and aristocrats. During the first decades of its existence the German General Staff was led by idealists with constructive political conceptions and ethical and Christian mentality. The emergence of the anonymous technicians, whose political convictions were either non-existent or formed by military necessity or ambitions, only served to aggravate an expansionist, adventurous, and militaristic national temperament.

Hitler’s decision to force his country into a war which could not end well and his deep hostility toward the General Staff created the greatest tragedy in its history when most of its members were continually torn by the struggle between human, ethical, and patriotic responsibilities on the one hand and by military obedience as exemplified in their military oath on the other. The continual conflict ended in the attempt on Hitler’s life and also in the complete destruction of the German General Staff by Hitler himself...There were aloof and cold technicians, warm-hearted, emotional men with European conceptions, fanatical Nazis, gullible dupes, drill-sergeant types, and true idealistic aristocrats like Stauffenberg.

The...HISTORY OF THE GERMAN GENERAL STAFF, which is based on tremendous research in German and foreign sources and on many interviews with German generals and staff officers who survived World War II, is considered the standard work in the field.