Friedrich von Bernhardi

Friedrich von Bernhardi was a Prussian general and military historian whose writings significantly influenced military thought in the early 20th century. He gained prominence as a best-selling author before World War I, most notably for his controversial work, 'Deutschland und der Nächste Krieg' (Germany and the Next War), published in 1911. In this book, Bernhardi articulated a militaristic philosophy, characterizing war as a 'divine business' and advocating for Germany to adopt an aggressive foreign policy that disregarded existing treaties. His ideas reflected the prevailing nationalist sentiments of the time and contributed to the militaristic atmosphere leading up to the war. Bernhardi's legacy is marked by his role in shaping military doctrine and public opinion regarding warfare in Germany. His works not only stirred debate during his lifetime but also left a lasting impact on military strategy and thought in the years that followed. While he was celebrated by some for his bold views, his advocacy for aggression and conflict has also drawn criticism, positioning him as a controversial figure in the history of military literature. His writings continue to be studied for their insights into the mindset that contributed to the outbreak of World War I.