Helmuth von Moltke the Younger

ModernGeneralGermany1848 — 1916

Failed to execute the Schlieffen Plan, died broken.

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Quick Facts

Born

1848

Died

1916

Country

Germany

Era

Modern

Occupation

General

Score Overview

Military (10%)48

Political (20%)29

Influence (20%)52

Legacy (20%)43

Leadership (15%)54

Strategy (15%)43

Total Score45.2

Helmuth von Moltke the Younger — Complete Timeline

1914 AD

First Battle of the MarneWar

Moltke, as Chief of the German General Staff, commanded the German armies during the First Battle of the Marne. His modification of the Schlieffen Plan and loss of communication with his armies contributed to the German defeat. The battle ended German hopes for a quick victory in the west.

World War IWestern FrontSchlieffen Plan

Impact: globaltragic

Battle of the FrontiersWar◆ Major

Moltke oversaw the German invasion of Belgium and France in August 1914. The German armies achieved initial victories at the Battles of the Frontiers, but the advance was slowed by logistical problems and Belgian resistance. This set the stage for the failure at the Marne.

World War IWestern FrontInvasion

Impact: regional

Dismissal as Chief of StaffPolitical Action◆ Major

After the German defeat at the First Battle of the Marne, Moltke was dismissed as Chief of the German General Staff on 14 September 1914. He was replaced by Erich von Falkenhayn. Moltke's health deteriorated and he died in 1916, blamed by many for Germany's failure to win a quick victory.

World War ICommandDismissal

Impact: nationaltragic