This book is from my library and is a reproduction of a volume originally published in 1883 by George Armand Furse, an officer of the Black Watch who was a prolific author of books on logistics.
Furse was, for his time, unusual in that he believed officers should be studying the science of war. This view was enhanced by the , at the time, recent Franco-Prussian War of 1870-71. The "new" Prussian army had totally outclassed the French and many "thinking" officers looked to learn the lessons of why the Prussians had been so successful. The organisation of the Prussian supply services was seen at the time as a great leap forward and worthy of application to other armies.
Furse well understood that Britain's wars at the time were overseas, generally against primitive locals and conducted on a much smaller scale than European wars. However he clearly believed there were still lessons to be learned. The book discusses the Prussian model of logistics but set in a British scenario whereby the "base" would be provided by the Royal Navy. The composition of the base, lines of communications and the supply services are covered in great detail and even the question of procurement of local foodstuffs and horses is discussed in depth.
Overall an excellent book if you are interested in the state of the art thinking about logistics in the British army of 1883.
Sounds like an interesting read. Thanks for the heads up & background.
ReplyDeleteHi... Yes an interesting book. I have a couple of others on similar matters by the same author so may well review these over the coming months too. Regards.
DeleteSounds interesting - I can see some Colonial gamers scenario Brian’s whirring into action at the thought of navy supply chains etc
ReplyDeleteI think that should read ‘scenario brains’
DeleteHi Mark...Indeed...in fact a navy supply chain is something I am considering for my next Imagi-Nations post...when I eventually get round to writing it. Regards.
Delete