Arms and the Race by Robert Matteson Johnston
 |
| Arms and the Race by Robert Matteson Johnston |
Key Themes
- Militarism: Johnston highlights how the obsession with military strength became a dominant political and cultural force in Europe.
- Naval rivalry: The book pays special attention to the Anglo-German naval race, where Britain and Germany competed to build larger and more powerful fleets.
- Balance of power: Johnston analyzes how alliances and military buildups were meant to preserve stability but instead heightened tensions.
- Economic burden: He critiques the enormous financial strain that armament programs placed on nations, warning of their unsustainable nature.
- Prelude to WWI: The book is essentially a study of how the arms race was one of the key causes of the First World War.
Chapter Summaries
- Armies in the Eighteenth Century
Johnston begins with the structure and limitations of 18th‑century armies, which were largely dynastic, professional, and relatively small compared to later national forces.
- The Art of War
He examines military theory and practice, focusing on how strategy and tactics evolved before the Napoleonic era.
- The National Army
This chapter highlights the transformation brought by the French Revolution and Napoleon, when mass conscription created truly national armies.
- National Military Policies
Johnston analyzes how different European states developed distinct military doctrines and policies in the 19th century.
- Kruppism and Disarmament
He critiques the rise of industrial armament production (symbolized by Krupp in Germany) and debates over disarmament.
- Europe—Asia—America
Johnston broadens the scope to global military developments, comparing Western powers with Asian and American contexts.
- Military Experiences of the United States
He reviews U.S. military history, from the Revolutionary War through the Civil War, noting strengths and weaknesses.
- Our National Defense Policy
Johnston critiques America’s defense posture in the early 20th century, warning of vulnerabilities.
- Organization
The final chaphrefter emphasizes the importance of military organization, efficiency, and preparedness in modern states.