Carl von Clausewitz was a Prussian general and military theorist, best known for his influential work, "On War" (Vom Kriege). Born in 1780, he served in the Napoleonic Wars and later became a key figure in military strategy. His ideas emphasized the complex nature of war, viewing it as an extension of politics by other means. Clausewitz's theories have shaped modern military thought, particularly his concepts of the "fog of war" and the "center of gravity." His work remains a foundational text in military academies worldwide, influencing both military leaders and political strategists throughout history.