d file, but also by people in all parts of the colonies. Although he did not inspire his men to fanatical loyalty as Napoleon or Nelson, the troops under his command knew they could count upon his valor, military judgment, and fair justice always. (Morison, p. 314-5) Everyone, from the highest gentleman in Congress to the lowest private in the Army, could depend on George Washington’s character at all times.Strategy to Win the WarWashington’s reevaluation of the situation after the failure in New York was the strategy he should have adopted from the start of the war. His knowledge of war fighting was learned by direct observation and experience. In this, he realized to win he must more that all else, preserve the integrity of the Continental Army. “Washington concluded that if the army could be kept alive, the Revolutionary cause would remain alive.” (Weigley, p. 12) In gaining this insight, Washington set about on a new course to victory in that the “Art of War” is demonstrated. Washington first plans for a strategic defensive, thereby preserving his army. He avoids battle whenever possible and continues to draw the British into a prolonged war of attrition. It is this continuous maneuvering that gives Washington control of the flow of the War. For no matter where the British Army strikes, or what city they may take, or what battle they may win, the Continental Army under Washington’s astute leadership perseveres. Next Washington had to attrite or erode the British resolve. Not only take away the British Army’s will to fight, but take away the people of England’s support for the war as well. “For there has never been a protracted war from which a country had benefited.” (Sun Tzu, p. 73) In drawing out the war, Washington strategy of attrition attacks the very heart of the British strategy for a swift end to the colonial revolt. Since the British are still a...
