Russia's Iron General : The Life of Aleksei A. Brusilov, 1853–1926

"This study provides a comprehensive biography of Russian general Aleksei A. Brusilov (1853-1926), commonly considered Russia's greatest general in World War I. Following in the footsteps of his military family, he entered the cavalry and quickly rose through ranksto the status of general by 1906. Brusilov's great fame largely rests on his successful offensive in the summer of 1916, when he inflicted a stinging defeat on Austro-German forces. As commander of the Southwest Front, he initiated his "broad front tactics" and attacked on a 250-mile front, inflicting a million and a half casualties. His successes crippled Austria permanently, making it totally dependent on Germany for the remainder of the war, thus insuring no German victory in the east. When the Revolution began in March 1917, Brusilov readily gave his allegiance to the republican Provisional Government and cooperated with the socialist Petrograd Soviet and their commissars and soldiers' committees. The government eventually made him commander-in-chief of all Russian forces. He died a hero to the Russian people and remains so to this day. In Russia's Iron General, Jamie H. Cockfield extensively examines all facets of Brusilov's life that led to his renowned reputation that continues decades after his death. This study analyzes Brusilov's political positions over several wars and changing political powers, his military history, theories, and tactics, and his personal and familial life."-- Provided by publisher Contents 8 Preface 10 1 The Training of a Russian Officer, 1853–1914 14 2 The First Months of the Great War, 1914–1915 68 3 Between Metal and Men: Near Disaster and Revitalization, May 1915–April 1916 102 4 Brusilov Dons His Armor, April–May 1916 150 5 Brusilov’s Glorious Days, June–October 1916 178 6 A Winter of Despair, October 1916–March 1917 236 7 The Spring of Hope, March–June 1917 254 8 Descent into Darkness, June–August 1917 290 9 When Your Mother Is Sick, 1917–1926 322 Bibliography 362 Index 380 This study provides a comprehensive biography of General Aleksei A. Brusilov, generally considered Russia’s greatest First World War General. It examines his military theory and tactics, political positions, and personal and family life.