The desire for intelligence is rooted in the instinct for survival. Some type of intelligence has been used since the very beginning, starting with the first civilizations. When a new nation starts, intelligence is key to grow and sustain their culture, much like the Americas. The key to their success could be attributed to a singular book, which was written around 500 BC. This short read, labeled The Art of War, has been read and used by almost every successful general throughout time. Although not directly stated, the United States can be seen to use the same techniques outlined in Sun Tzu's book, The Art of War, to deceive, manipulate and ultimately defeat their opponents in the Revolutionary War, Civil War, and both World Wars. .
Sun Tzu was an ancient Chinese philosopher who worked during Imperial China under Ho Lu, King of Wu (Clavell 3). Born Sun Wu, he received an education and wrote a short book exploring a new way to look at war (3). After reading this book labeled The Art of War, the King Wu summoned him and asked for his permission to apply his theories to his army. Sun Wu agreed, became a general, and changed his name to Sun Tzu, meaning "Master Sun" (Clavell 4). The Art of War begins, "The art of war is of vital importance to the state. It is a matter of life and death, a road either to safety or to ruin. Hence under no circumstance can it be neglected" (Tzu 9). The book is only thirteen chapters long and thoroughly explains how to approach warfare, terrain and how to handle spies. The first ten chapters provide step by step instructions on how to manage and make efficient use of a loyal army. Specifically, he explains the importance of laying plans, waging wars, tactics, energy, maneuvering, and marching. The very first chapter contains the art of deception. This chapter is labeled "Laying Plans", and in it he includes very respected insight on how and when to attack.