Guerilla

Guerrilla warfare is a form of irregular warfare in which small groups of combatants, such as paramilitary personnel, armed civilians, or irregulars, use military tactics including ambushes, sabotage, raids, petty warfare, hit-and-run tactics, and mobility to fight a larger and less-mobile traditional military.

Etymology

The term "guerrilla" comes from the Spanish word guerra, meaning "war". The diminutive form, guerrilla, translates to "little war". The term was first used to describe the Spanish-Portuguese resistance to the Napoleonic invasion of the Iberian Peninsula.

History

Guerrilla tactics have been used throughout history, from ancient times to the modern era. Notable examples include:

• Ancient Rome: The Roman Empire faced guerrilla tactics from various tribes and groups, such as the Germanic tribes and the Jewish Zealots.
• American Revolutionary War: American militias used guerrilla tactics against British forces.
• Vietnam War: The Viet Cong employed guerrilla warfare against the United States and South Vietnam.

Tactics

Guerrilla warfare is characterized by the use of the following tactics:

• Ambushes: Surprise attacks on enemy forces.
• Sabotage: Deliberate destruction of equipment, supplies, or infrastructure.
• Raids: Quick, surprise attacks on enemy positions.
• Hit-and-run tactics: Attacks followed by immediate withdrawal to avoid retaliation.
• Mobility: High mobility to evade larger, less-mobile forces.

Modern Guerrilla Movements

Modern guerrilla movements have been seen in various conflicts around the world, including:

• Cuban Revolution: Led by Fidel Castro and Che Guevara.
• Afghan-Soviet War: Afghan Mujahideen used guerrilla tactics against Soviet forces.
• Colombian conflict: Various guerrilla groups, such as the FARC, have been active in Colombia.

Related Concepts

• Insurgency
• Asymmetric warfare
• Partisan (military)
• Resistance movement

See Also

• Mao Zedong
• Che Guevara
• T. E. Lawrence
• Irregular military