Saratoga Campaign: A Case Study of a Leader's Impact on Decisionmaking

摘要

Leading up to and during the execution of the Saratoga Campaign, the Northern Department was wrought with command challenges. Three American Commanders, at four decisive points, throughout the campaign overcame these challenges and made exceptional decisions that ensured a strategic victory. First, General Schuyler made the operational decision to delay Burgoyne's advance. Second, General John Stark devised and executed an audacious tactical plan to isolate and defeat a detached British force. Finally, General Arnold drove the actions of his senior commander, General Gates, and subordinate commanders during both Battles of Saratoga. These leaders' experience and willingness to assume risk, in an uncertain environment, were critical to the decisions they made and ultimately more important in determining the strategic success then the established command relationships.