K. This is the 1st working draft of vol. VI. It still ... - From Marx to Mao

ON GUERILLA WARFARE
plication on the field of battle. The quick intelligence that constantly
watches the ever-changing situation and is able to seize on
the right moment for decisive action is found only in keen and
thoughtful observers.
Careful planning is necessary if victory is to be won in guerrilla
war, and those who fight without method do not understand the nature
of guerrilla action. A plan is necessary regardless of the size
of the unit involved; a prudent plan is as necessary in the case of
the squad as in the case of the regiment. The situation must be carefully
studied, then an assignment of duties made. Plans must include
both political and military instruction, the matter of supply
and equipment, and the matter of co-operation with local civilians.
FROM MARX
TO MAO
Without study of these factors, it is impossible either to seize the
⋆
initiative or to operate alertly. It is true that guerrillas can make
only limited plans, but even so, the factors we have mentioned must
be considered.
The initiative can be secured and retained only following a positive
victory that results from attack. The attack must be made on
guerrilla initiative; that is, guerrillas must not permit themselves to
be maneuvered into a position where they are robbed of initiative
and where the decision to attack is forced upon them. Any victory
will result from careful planning and alert control. Even in defence,
all our efforts must be NOT directed toward FOR a resumption of the attack,
for it is only by attack that we can extinguish our enemies and preserve
ourselves. A defence or a withdrawal is entirely useless as far
as extinguishing COMMERCIAL
our enemies is concerned and of only temporary
value as far as the conservation of our forces is concerned. This
principle is valid both for guerrillas and regular troops. The differences
are of degree only; that is to say, in the manner of execution.
The relationship DISTRIBUTION
that exists between guerrilla and the regular
forces is important and must be appreciated. Generally speaking,
there are three types of co-operation between guerrillas and regular
groups. These are:
1. Strategic co-operation.
2. Tactical co-operation.
3. Battle co-operation.
Guerrillas who harass the enemy’s rear installations and hinder
his transport are weakening him and encouraging the national spirit
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