The Attack On Panama City By Henry Morgan

This study reviews Sir Henry Morgan's attack on Panama City in 1671. Henry Morgan was successful because he applied combat power correctly. Morgan faced an enemy of superior numbers, yet he was successful. Morgan chose an objective that was thought to be unobtainable, yet he won. Morgan received no formal education in the art of war; he learned from his own experience and the experience of the pirates before him. In his last great exploit Morgan chose the famous city of Panama for his objective. This study shows how Morgan applied the elements of combat power in capturing Panama City, a city never before conquered. This study concludes by showing how the tactics of Henry Morgan are important to the military leader today. Morgan serves as an example of how to apply the elements of combat power. Morgan's use of maneuver is a text book example for young leaders to study today. Perhaps most important is Morgan's example of how leadership is vital to every military operation. The study of Morgan's leadership and how he was able to achieve what others thought could not be done is an example for all leaders.