Nathan Bedford Forrest: A Case Study of Operational Leadership

摘要

Lieutenant General Nathan Bedford Forrest, Confederate States of America(C.S.A.), was one of the most effective military commanders on either side of that long and bloody conflict known as the Civil War. His capacity as a warfighter engendered fierce loyalty among his subordinates, distinguished him from his peers, intimidated many of his superiors, and struck fear in the hearts of his opponents. While certain aspects of warfare have changed significantly since the Civil War, the basic aspects of the operational art, in general, and the traits of effective operational leadership, in particular, have remained constant. As a result, the military career of General Forrest still serves as a rich case study of operational leadership. This is especially true when his career is examined in light of modern warfighting doctrine. Such a contrast serves to highlight the continuing relevance of Forrest's operational leadership and provides many valuable insights for current and future operational commanders.