The Changing Nature of Peace

Abstract

Abstract : As the nature of war changes, the conditions for the nature of peace may also change. Inherent in the changing nature of war and peace are implications for war termination, end state, and peace which present perplexing questions for national leaders and operational commanders alike. More specifically, as commanders plan for war, they must also take into consideration the conditions and plans for the peace anticipated. This aspect of operational planning historically, has been neglected as attention has been focused on preparing for and executing the battle. This paper will consider the changing nature of peace through examination of Napoleon's 1812 invasion of and retreat from Moscow and the 1991 US-led campaign in the Gulf War. Lessons and recommendations will be drawn from analysis of war termination, end state, and peace aspects of these two cases. In addition, since it is becoming more apparent that operational commanders will have a key role in making recommendations for war termination, end state, and the peace of a campaign, it will be essential to build this aspect into future plans. These lessons and recommendations will further show the applicability for operational missions and planning considerations in the future. When it comes to war termination, the end state, and the peace envisioned, understanding this perspective will be as essential in planning and execution as the campaign itself....Naval War College of the Department of the Navy, War termination, Peace, DESERT SHIELD/DESERT STORM, End state, Napoleon, Gulf War.