Mei-Chun Lee Sawyer

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Fire and Water: The Art of Incendiary and Aquatic Warfare in China

Mei-Chun Lee Sawyer; Ralph Sawyer

An expert in Chinese Warfare, best-selling author Ralph Sawyer, offers a compelling account of the development of incendiary and aquatic warfare tactics in ancient China as pivotal elements in turning the tides of battle.

China's official histories are replete with intriguing examples of incendiary and aquatic warfare being employed (particularly by the outnumbered) in pivotal roles to turn the tide of battle. In his new book Fire and Water, best-selling author Ralph Sawyer traces the dynamic evolution and development of incendiary warfare in ancient China, from antiquity through the introduction of true gunpowder weapons, including cannon and muskets. Discussing both use and techniques, the book similarly unfolds the evolution of aquatic methodology, emphasizing the strong interconnection between the two with the inception of riverine combat. Fundamentally based upon an examination of the Chinese military writings, Sawyer examines and recounts the most important clashes and epochal conflicts in which these dramatic tactics were employed over the centuries. Although not a naval history, Sawyer does examine the extensive employment of incendiary attacks in naval conflict and explores the means for overcoming riverine obstacles, such as floating bridges.

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The Six Secret Teachings on the Way of Strategy: Tai-Kung Liu Tao

Mei-Chun Lee Sawyer; Shang Lu

Along with The Art of War by Sun-Tzu, The Six Secret Teachings on the Way of Strategy is one of the most insightful and comprehensive of the so-called Seven Military Classics of ancient China. T'ai Kung, to whom this classic is attributed, has been honored throughout Chinese history as the first of the great military leaders and as the father of strategic studies. In this book, T'ai Kung offers a broad range of teachings on strategy that are applicable to leadership in any arena of human activity, including: the importance of benevolence in building strong and effective organizations, strategies for overcoming an opponent of superior strength, the role of moral leadership as the basis of prosperity, the hidden dynamics of power and the strategies of command, and specific tactics for overcoming adverse situations.

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Ling Chi Ching: El Antiguo Oraculo Chino

Mei-Chun Lee Sawyer; Ralph D. Sawyer

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The Complete Art of War

Mei-Chun Lee Sawyer; Sun-Tzu

Presented here together for the first time are the greatest of the ancient Chinese classics of strategic thought: The Complete Art of War. Probably the most famous work of strategy ever written, Sun Tzu's Art of Warhas sold millions of copies in many languages around the world. Lost for more than 2000 years and only recently recovered, the Military Methodsof Sun Pin (Sun Tzu's great-grandson) is a brilliant elaboration on his ancestor's work. Only The Complete Art of Warbrings the wisdom of these two ancient sages into a single volume and gives the reader a unique opportunity to master the essentials of Chinese thought on strategy, organization and leadership. The Sun family writings on strategy have proven their value through the ages, and they continue to reward careful study. By unveiling the complex, often unexpected, interrelationships of armies locked in battle, they reveal the enduring principles of success in the struggle of life itself. With a practical index to the essential principles of strategy, and Ralph Sawyer's thoughtful chapter-by-chapter commentaries, The Complete Art of War  is designed to bring the reader new insights into the nature of human conflict. Whether it is playing the game of politics or building a successful marriage, closing a deal or managing a large organization, making war or even making peace, The Complete Art of War  stands as one of the ultimate guides to a deeper understanding of human affairs.

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