Summary of the Art of War

work by Jomini

Also known as: “Précis de l’art de la guerre”

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July 14, 2026

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Henri Jomini's Summary of the Art of War is a foundational text in military strategy. Jomini, a Swiss-born French general and military critic, systematically analyzed warfare to define its core principles. His work, Précis de l’art de la guerre, written for the son of Tsar Nicholas I, aimed to distill these principles for effective military leadership.1

Jomini's key contribution was distinguishing between strategy, tactics, and logistics. He emphasized the importance of choosing correct lines of operation to dominate the battlefield. His systematic approach made him a significant figure in the development of modern military thought.1

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Henri, baron de Jomini
…l’art de la guerre (1838; Summary of the Art of War, 1868). In 1854 he served as adviser to Tsar Nicholas on tactics during the Crimean War and in 1859 advised Emperor Napoleon III on the Italian expedition.
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…l’art de la guerre (1838; Summary of the Art of War, 1868). In 1854 he served as adviser to Tsar Nicholas on tactics during the Crimean War and in 1859 advised Emperor Napoleon III on the Italian expedition.
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logistics
Fundamentals
In his Summary of the Art of War (1838), Jomini defined logistics as “the practical art of moving armies,” by which he evidently meant the whole range of functions involved in moving and sustaining military forces—planning, administration, supply, billeting and encampments, bridge and road building, even reconnaissance…
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In his Summary of the Art of War (1838), Jomini defined logistics as “the practical art of moving armies,” by which he evidently meant the whole range of functions involved in moving and sustaining military forces—planning, administration, supply, billeting and encampments, bridge and road building, even reconnaissance…
Read More