War is a conflict of great interests which is settled by bloodshed, and only in that is it different from others.
Carl von ClausewitzPrinciples and rules are intended to provide a thinking man with a frame of reference.
Carl von ClausewitzTo discover how much of our resources must be mobilized for war, we must first examine our political aim and that of the enemy. We must gauge the strength and situation of the opposite state. We must gauge the character and abilities of its government and people and do the same in regard to our own. Finally, we must evaluate the political sympathies of other states and the effect the war may have on them.
Carl von ClausewitzIf the enemy is to be coerced, you must put him in a situation that is even more unpleasant than the sacrifice you call on him to make. The hardships of the situation must not be merely transient - at least not in appearance. Otherwise, the enemy would not give in, but would wait for things to improve.
Carl von Clausewitz