Question 1

The Ancient Greek word 'strategia' or 'strategike', from which our modern word 'strategy' is derived, has what meaning?

Accepted Answer

The Ancient Greek word 'strategia' or 'strategike' means 'the art of generalship; ruse'. Therefore, the best choice would be D, which is 'The art of generalship; ruse'.

Question 2

During the Peloponnesian War, both Spartans and Athenians resorted to strategies of attrition because their favoured forms of power were asymmetrical, therefore preventing them from directly confronting each other.

Accepted Answer

During the Peloponnesian War, both Spartans and Athenians had different forms of power and tactics, which made it difficult for them to engage in direct confrontations. As a result, both sides resorted to strategies of attrition, such as blockades and raids, in order to weaken their opponent over time.

Question 3

How did the Byzantines handle their enemies?

Accepted Answer

The Byzantines employed a combination of tactics to handle their enemies - they effectively employed their limited and overstretched forces, relied upon the soft power of their culture, and spread Christianity to their neighbors. They were known for their strategic diplomacy, using treaties and alliances to their advantage. They also had a formidable navy that allowed them to control the Mediterranean and protect their trade routes. Overall, their approach to handling enemies was multifaceted and sophisticated.

Question 4

According to chapter 2 in Strategy in the Contemporary World, each of the following was a key aspect of the 'grand strategy' of Philip II of Spain, except

Accepted Answer

Chapter 2 explains that Philip II of Spain did attempt to use technological inventions like sea power, particularly against the Ottoman Empire. However, his focus on ideological objectives and Catholicism, as well as his efforts to preserve and expand his inheritance, were key aspects of his grand strategy.

Question 5

How did medieval strategies generally differ from those of later times?

Accepted Answer

Medieval strategies generally relied on fortifications and defensive positions rather than seeking out decisive battles or preferring raids. This was largely due to the prevalence of castles and fortified cities throughout Europe during the Middle Ages. Later strategies, particularly in the modern era, have tended to focus more on mobility, firepower, and maneuverability.

Question 6

Which of these developments preceded the increasing complexity of strategic thinking in the late sixteenth century?

Accepted Answer

All of the options given preceded the increasing complexity of strategic thinking in the late sixteenth century. The growing state apparatus allowed for the consolidation of power and the development of more sophisticated political strategies. Technological innovation, such as the development of gunpowder and improvements in military tactics, also played a role in shaping strategic thinking. Advances in navigation and shipping facilitated global exploration and trade, leading to the development of new economic and political systems.

Question 7

Why did Louis XIV and Frederick II not fail even when facing most of Europe in war, although Napoleon later did?

Accepted Answer

Both Louis XIV and Frederick II focused on territorial enlargement rather than regime change, which allowed them to avoid extended and draining conflicts with multiple great powers. In contrast, Napoleon sought to impose his own political system and control over conquered territories, which led to prolonged wars against coalitions of great powers that ultimately drained France's resources and manpower.

Question 8

How was the American Revolutionary War a crucial precedent for the French Revolutionary Wars?

Accepted Answer

The American Revolutionary War demonstrated the effectiveness of using militia and irregular forces, which influenced military strategies in the French Revolutionary Wars.

Question 9

Napoleon's favoured strategy was to deal with other states one at a time, signing bilateral treaties to be broken when the time was right, and attacking the next victim during the lull with the previous foe.

Accepted Answer

This statement accurately describes Napoleon's favoured strategy during his military campaigns.

Question 10

The Napoleonic Paradigm has been the norm for most of Europe's history.

Accepted Answer

The Napoleonic Paradigm refers to the political and legal reforms introduced by Napoleon Bonaparte in France and the countries he conquered. While it had a significant impact on the countries under Napoleon's control, it was not the norm for most of Europe's history.

Quiz 1: The History of the Practice of Strategy From Antiquity to Napoleon, Beatrice Heuser