Evolution of Warfare

Catalog description

The purpose of the Evolution of Warfare course is to provide the Marine student with a basic understanding of the art, science, and concepts of warfare. The flow of the course starts with USMC warfare theory foundations (MCDP-1 Warfighting) to ensure students are introduced to concepts that are integral to being a Marine Corps officer. Next, the course presents historical battles that present a notable progression in warfare. These periods illuminate the effects of both innovative and stale leadership and the resulting major transformations in warfare. Each battle study relates doctrine (tactics, techniques, and procedures - TTPs), organization, training, material (equipment), leadership, and personnel; to the leadership decisions made by the commanders. Each student will be challenged to view warfare not through the lens of a historian but as a military professional. Furthermore, the curriculum laces modern day shifts in warfare with sections for irregular and cyber warfare. The course then proceeds to relate these teachings to today's USMC doctrine, thus coming full circle with the introductory section. Moving forward, the courseware then shifts to cover the basics of Marine Corps amphibious doctrine. This doctrine is then used as a lens to analyze amphibious case studies from ancient through modern times. Finally, the course conducts an in-depth analysis of OIF bringing the course to a fitting, contemporary conclusion that uses everything learned in the course thus far thereby ensuring the student's mastery of the material.