Mao Vs Lawrence: A Guerrilla Strategy Comparison

Using a literary search, a comparison is made of the guerrilla warfare strategies of T.E. Lawrence and Mao Tse-tung. Analysis of their strategic concepts reveals several similarities and some striking differences. Lawrence's contribution is basically an intellectual articulation of partisan warfare strategy based shrewdly upon his conversion of strength from weakness. Mao Tse-tung's contribution is evolutionary in nature reflecting a modern guerrilla warfare concept based upon his personal objective of reorienting China socially, politically, and economically. The essay concludes that Mao's strategy is more applicable to prevailing world forces and trends; however, Lawrence's principles are also deserving of study to ensure a full range of strategic thought for any eventuality. (Modified author abstract).