‘The general staff has been described as the “brain of an army.” The metaphor is peculiarly apt, for the staff, like the human brain, is not independent but a part of an organic whole. It can perform its functions only in connection with a body adapted to its control, and united with it by the ramifications of a nervous system.’
Prussia’s victory over France in the Franco-Prussian War was a pivotal event in the 19th century that marked Germany’s unification and its rise as the preeminent power of continental Europe. During the war, the Prussian military demonstrated extreme effectiveness and quickly achieved decisive victories against France. Countries all over Europe began studying the Prussian military in order to improve their own militaries. Spenser Wilkinson, a foremost commentator on military affairs during his time, produced this little book to educate the general public on what the Prussian (later German) general staff was and the important role it played.
Spenser Wilkinson, full name Henry Spenser Wilkinson, was a British professor of military history.