Modern Tactics (1889) — Herbert Reay Gall | Kessinger Publishing

Explore a Classic Military Tactics Reference

Step back to a pivotal era of military thought with Modern Tactics (1889), originally authored by Herbert Reay Gall and reissued by Kessinger Publishing. This carefully reproduced edition distills a 19th‑century view of warfare into a practical guide that modern readers can study alongside related historical sources. It surveys how soldiers were drilled, how units were organized, and how campaigns were planned, all through the lens of the period's rifles, bayonets, and early machine guns. The text invites readers to consider the conditions of late Imperial warfare—the logistics that kept armies supplied, the reconnaissance that informed decisions, and the training regimes that shaped discipline. While not a modern manual, it offers a vivid snapshot of tactical thinking and the craft of command from a bygone era.

Inside this facsimile edition

• Comprehensive coverage of infantry tactics, cavalry drills, and artillery deployment.
• Detailed discussion of logistics and unit organization in the era.
• Descriptions of weapons and equipment used at the time, including rifles, bayonets, and early machine guns.
• Insights into intelligence gathering, reconnaissance, and the planning processes behind operations.

Why historians and enthusiasts value this edition

• Authentic reproduction preserves the original layout and terminology for precise study.
• A scarce resource that complements broader research on late 19th century warfare.
• Minor imperfections, such as library marks or marginal notes, add to its authenticity and storytelling.
• An accessible entry point for classroom discussion, collection curation, or personal inquiry into historical tactics.

Note on condition: This scarce antiquarian book is a facsimile reprint of the old original and may include small imperfections typical of archival volumes. By offering this work, Kessinger Publishing aims to protect, preserve, and promote the world’s literature in affordable, high-quality editions faithful to the source.