War is not merely a political act but a real political instrument, a continuation of political intercourse, a carrying out of the same by other means.

There are times when the utmost daring is the height of wisdom.

War is the province of danger.

Knowledge in war is very simple, being concerned with so few subjects, and only with their final results at that. But this does not make its application easy.

The first, the supreme, the most far-reaching act of judgment that the statesman and commander have to make is to establish ... the kind of war on which they are embarking.

Be audacious and cunning in your plans, firm and persevering in their execution, determined to find a glorious end.

What do we mean by the defeat of the enemy? Simply the destruction of his forces, whether by death, injury, or any other means-either completely or enough to make him stop fighting. . . . The complete or partial destruction of the enemy must be regarded as the sole object of all engagements. . . . Direct annihilation of the enemy's forces must always be the dominant consideration.