Winfield Scott Displays His Genius at Vera Cruz

General Winfield Scott’s campaign against Mexico City in 1847 constitutes one of the earliest examples of American operational art. [1] Scott’s performance as a commander during the campaign stands out as a unique example to study for contemporary operational artists. Indeed, Scott’s calm and continued focus on the strategic objective combined with self-confidence, a deep understanding of his opponent’s social, military, and economic situation, and operational and tactical patience enabled the U.S. force to achieve its strategic objective despite being outnumbered in a hostile environment. Scott skillfully balanced risk and opportunity in an overall operational approach along three lines of effort, to achieve the strategic objective by arranging a series of related major operations in time, space, and purpose.[2] Furthermore, the operation is an example of the impact political and civilian considerations on both sides of a conflict can have on military operations.[3]