"Theories of Victory" by Bradford A. Lee

This lecture addresses the tactical and operational levels of warfare, focusing on the process of winning wars. It introduces a theory of victory, which is likened to a roadmap with many possible routes to success. Lee outlines theories of victory as a pragmatic approach to achieving political objectives through military operations. It also highlights the role of policymakers and military strategists in shaping a vision of victory into a practical theory of victory. The lecture also investigates Pericles’ strategic approach during the Peloponnesian War, focusing on Athenian naval power to frustrate Spartan land battle desires and impose blockades.