Alfred von Schlieffen was a German general and military strategist, best known for creating the Schlieffen Plan. This plan was designed to quickly defeat France in the event of a two-front war with Russia and France during World War I. Schlieffen believed that a rapid victory over France would allow Germany to focus its resources on the eastern front against Russia. Born on February 28, 1833, Schlieffen served in various military roles throughout his career. He became Chief of the German General Staff in 1891 and held this position until his retirement in 1906. His strategic ideas significantly influenced German military tactics during the early stages of World War I.