Antoine-Henri Jomini Quotes

#1. A state attacked by another which renews an old claim rarely yields it without a war: it prefers to defend its territory, as is always more honorable. But it may be advantageous to take the offensive, instead of awaiting the attack on the frontiers.

Antoine-Henri Jomini

#2. This [a surprise attack] is an operation by no means to be despised in war, although it is rare, and less brilliant than a great strategic combination which renders victory certain even before the battle is fought.

Antoine-Henri Jomini

#3. The surprise of an army is now next to an impossibility ... Prearranged surprises are rare and difficult because in order to plan one it becomes necessary to have an accurate knowledge of the enemy's camp.

Antoine-Henri Jomini

#4. A cherished cause and a general who inspires confidence by previous success are powerful means of electrifying an army.

Antoine-Henri Jomini

#5. One of the surest ways of forming good combinations in war would be to order movements only after obtaining perfect information of the enemy's proceedings. In fact, how can any man say what he should do himself; if he is ignorant what his adversary is about?

Antoine-Henri Jomini

#6. As the excited passions of hostile people are of themselves a powerful enemy, both the general and his government should use their best efforts to allay them.

Antoine-Henri Jomini

#7. Logistics comprises the means and arrangements which work out the plans of strategy and tactics. Strategy decides where to act; logistics brings the troops to this point.

Antoine-Henri Jomini