ABSTRACT
These problems were based upon Helmuth von Moltke’s initial plans for the early phase of the Franco-German War of 1870/71.1 Here, Schlieffen has asked his subordinates to outline the orders of the German armies in their invasion of France. Although the size of armies had changed considerably in the intervening 33 years, Schlieffen clear ly felt the underlying lessons remained the same and could provide use ful instruction to officers who had never seen combat. As such, it is a good example of how historical events were used for training by the Kaiserheer. Moreover, these problems demonstrate Schlieffen’s com mitment to preparing his officers for bigger and better things – despite the fact that most of those solving these problems were junior officers (Oberleutnants and Hauptleute), they were asked to develop plans for directing armies.
