The Savage Wars Of Peace: Small Wars And The Rise Of American Power

摘要: America's "small wars," "imperial or, as the Pentagon now terms them, "low-intensity conflicts," have played an essential but little-appreciated role in its growth a world power. Beginning with Jefferson's expedition against Barbary Pirates, Max Boot tells exciting stories of our sometimes minor often bloody landings Samoa, Philippines, China, Haiti, Dominican Republic, Nicaragua, Mexico, Russia, and elsewhere. Along way he sketches colorful portraits little-known military heroes such Stephen Decatur, "Fighting Fred" Funston, Smedley Butler. From 1800 to present day, undeclared wars made up vast majority engagements. Yet has resisted preparing itself for small wars, preferring instead train big conflicts that seldom come. re-examines tragedy Vietnam through war" prism. He concludes devastating critique Powell Doctrine convincing argument armed forces must reorient themselves better handle small-war missions, because clashes are inevitable result far-flung imperial responsibilities.