ABSTRACT

The American experience with the use of military force is unique, shaped by history, geography, and a host of other factors, many of which have been discussed in previous chapters. Our task now is to sort through that experience to see what patterns may emerge and what may be leamed that can enrich our understanding of the present and guide our encounters with the future. What, in other words, does examination of America' s experience with military force tell us about the present and future prospects of employing military force to achieve national ends?