Elements of Military Art and Science Or, Course Of Instruction In Strategy, Fortification, Tactics Of Battles, &C.; Embracing The Duties Of Staff, Infantry, Cavalry, Artillery, And Engineers; Adapted To The Use Of Volunteers And Militia; Third Edition; With Critical Notes On The Mexican And Crimean Wars.

"Elements of Military Art and Science" by H. W. Halleck is a treatise on military strategy and tactics written in the mid-19th century. This instructional work encompasses various aspects of military operations including strategy, fortifications, tactics of battles, and the organization of different military branches such as infantry, cavalry, and artillery. The book aims to provide valuable insights for military officers, particularly those in volunteer and militia roles, drawing on historical examples and established military principles. The opening of the text introduces the author’s rationale for writing a course on military art and science, emphasizing the long-standing pacific policies of the United States prior to the ongoing civil conflict. Halleck addresses the moral arguments against war, summarizing the views of various ethical writers, including Dr. Wayland, and provides justifications for the necessity of war in cases of self-defense and national security. This initial portion sets the tone for a serious exploration of military ethics and principles, establishing the groundwork for the following discussions on strategy and tactics that will unfold throughout the work. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Henry Wager Halleck was a senior United States Army officer, scholar, and lawyer. A noted expert in military studies, he was known by a nickname that became derogatory: "Old Brains". He was an important participant in the admission of California as a state and became a successful lawyer and land developer. Halleck served as the General-in-Chief of the Armies of the United States from 1862 to 1864, and then became Chief of Staff for the remainder of the war when Ulysses S. Grant was appointed to that position.