Intelligence in war : knowledge of the enemy from Napoleon to Al-Qaeda

Keegan, John

ISBN 10: 0091802296 / ISBN 13: 9780091802295

Published by London : Hutchinson, 2003

About this Item

Fine cloth copy in a near-fine, very slightly edge-dulled dust-wrapper. Remains particularly well-preserved overall; tight, bright, clean and strong. Physical description: xix, 443 pages, 16 unnumbered pages of plates : illustrations, maps, portraits ; 25 cm. Notes: Includes bibliographical references and index. Subjects: Military history, Modern 19th century. Military history, Modern 20th century. Genre: History. Language: English. 1 Kg.

Seller Inventory # 355728

Bibliographic Details

• Title: Intelligence in war : knowledge of the enemy from Napoleon to Al-Qaeda
• Publisher: London : Hutchinson
• Publication Date: 2003
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0091802296
• ISBN 13: 9780091802295
• Binding: Hardcover
• Edition: First Edition.

About this title

Synopsis

'No war can be conducted successfully without early and good intelligence,' wrote Marlborough, and from the earliest times commanders have sought knowledge of the enemy, his strengths and weaknesses, his dispositions and intentions. But how much effect, in the 'real time' of a battle or a campaign, can this knowledge have? In this magisterial new study, which will fascinate readers of both military and more general history, the author of "A History of Warfare" goes to the heart of a series of important conflicts to develop a powerful argument about intelligence in war. From the Napoleonic Wars to the sophisticated electronic warfare of the 21st century, John Keegan finds linking themes which lead to a compelling conclusion. His narrative sweep is enthralling, whether portraying the dilemmas of Nelson seeking Napoleon's fleet, Stonewall Jackson in the American Civil War, Bletchley as it seeks to crack Ultra during the Battle of the Atlantic, or the polymorphous intelligence issues of the contemporary flight against terrorism.

Review

'authoritative and thoughtful study’.....‘stimulating and informed book’ -- Alan Judd, Daily Telegraph

‘A thought-provoking and timely work on a widely misunderstood and over hyped subject. -- John Crossland, Sunday Times

‘Important and highly revisionist book’ -- Andrew Roberts, Sunday Telegraph

‘Intelligence in War combines the lucid prose, perceptive judgments and narrative power that Keegan’s readers have come to expect.’ -- Christopher Andrew, The Times

‘This excellent and highly readable book is vintage Keegan.’ -- The Literary Review