The readings and learning activities examined the nexus of civil-military relations and the “holy trinity” identified by Clausewitz; I have to write an in-depth analysis of this relationship in American politics. According to Clausewitz, war is a “continuation of politics by other means” and victory on the battlefield is dependent upon a effective working relationship among the ‘holy trinity of the government, military and people. I am stuck with the following questions.

• What factors would you identify as America’s greatest virtues regarding this trinity and the conduct of statecraft?
• What elements of the relationship would you classify as being detrimental to ensuring national security?