The American defeat of the British during the Revolutionary War was a direct result of George Washington’s incredible leadership and generalship which epitomized the greatness of Sun Tzu’s “Art of War” The key to the success of the American Revolution was the George Washington himself. Faced with a near impossible task of defeating a tremendously powerful enemy, Washington was required to defy the odds. So how does Washington’s accomplishment of this task relate to Sun Tzu and his teachings of “The Art of War”? There crucial points come to light: (1) Washington’s selection as to command the Continental Army and inherent command capabilities, (2) Washington’s strategy for winning the war against the Empire of Great Britain, (3) The art of maneuver that eventually lead to the critical defeat of Cornwallis and the British at Yorktown.Washington as a CommanderWashington’s selection to be the leader of the Continental Army was the wisest choice that the newly formed Continental Congress could have made. Washington’s selection as Commander of the Continental Army did more to win the Revolutionary war than any other decision made during the conflict. His personal character epitomizes perfectly the five traits required in a successful general: wisdom, sincerity, humanity, courage, and strictness. (Sun Tzu p. 65) These five crucial traits will become apparent and Washington’s strategy to win the War of Independence is elaborated on furtherWashington was the embodiment of everything fine in the American character. He had no delusions of grandeur and was second only to Benjamin Franklin as a diplomat with the French. In caring for his troops and their families he would spend his own money to help them. Washington brought more than just military ability and statesmanship to the Revolution he brought character. General Washington was respected not just by the rank an...
